Concerns and potential impact of Starlink’s entry into Cameroon’s telecom market

Officials in Cameroon have voiced concerns about the potential damaging impact to the country’s national telecommunications and internet service provider, Camtel, due to Starlink’s introduction to the market. The issues were raised by Minister of Posts and Telecommunications Minette Libom Li Likeng at the recent unveiling of the Industry Maker Academy (IMA 2024). Libom Li Likeng warned that without enhancements to their services, Camtel could be eclipsed by Starlink.

The Cameroon government is engaging in negotiations with Starlink, as confirmed by the Minister who admitted to having met with the company’s Africa Director. She noted that while Starlink has been informed that the Cameroonian market is open for business, they must adhere to specific regulations that require a licence to operate.

Several other African nations including Ghana, Zimbabwe, and Botswana have prohibited Starlink due to the same licensing requirements. However, following a significant Internet outage that affected most African countries in March 2024, Ghana’s government is reconsidering its stance and may issue a license allowing Starlink to operate within its borders.

Minister Libom Li Likeng also expressed other worries in relation to Starlink which include potential fraudulent business practices, misuse of Starlink terminals, and threats to personal data. Notably, despite a ban, instances of illegal use of Starlink have been reported in Zimbabwe where users have discovered ways to conceal their kits.

Cameroon’s Minister of Posts and Telecommunications, Minette Libom Li Likeng, emphasized the importance of data protection in the era of new technologies, comparing it to protecting oneself by getting appropriately dressed. She warned that negligent handling of information could open users up to fraudulent activities.

She shared that she had recently written to Starlink, asking it to discontinue Cameroonians’ access until it received its official licence, as an effort to safeguard the market.

Despite Libom Li Likeng’s concerns, industry experts acknowledge that Starlink could deliver high-quality broadband connectivity that mitigates disruptions usually associated with cable or fibre optic breakages. Traditional telecom firms like Camtel are heavily reliant on such infrastructures.

Elon Musk’s Starlink has generated considerable buzz as it expands into Africa, with its presence reported in over eight African nations. Starlink’s website mentions that it targets wider penetration into the continent, including areas where it has been prohibited, by the third quarter of 2024.

Although still unlicensed in numerous African countries, Starlink’s appeal stems from its promise of high-speed internet connectivity, which extends even to hard-to-reach locations, among other benefits.