Starlink, the satellite internet service developed by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, is now officially available in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), marking a major leap forward in the country’s digital connectivity efforts. This is according to Elon Musk’s post on “X” on Sunday.
This rollout comes after the Congolese government granted Starlink a telecommunications license, reversing an earlier ban placed on the service. Initially, authorities had blocked Starlink due to concerns over the potential misuse of its satellite internet technology in conflict-prone regions of the country. However, following regulatory reassessment and commitments to responsible deployment, the government cleared the path for Starlink to operate nationwide.
For a country where just around 30% of the population has regular access to the internet, Starlink’s arrival is poised to be a game-changer. Unlike traditional internet services that rely on ground-based infrastructure, Starlink leverages a constellation of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to deliver high-speed, low-latency internet to even the most remote locations. This makes it particularly valuable in the DRC, where vast geographic and infrastructural challenges have long hindered reliable digital access.
Rural and underserved communities in Congo, often overlooked by conventional internet providers, now have a new option for high-speed connectivity. Starlink’s satellite system is capable of bypassing the limitations of terrain and poor infrastructure, providing households, schools, businesses, and healthcare centers with internet access that can empower education, remote work, commerce, and telemedicine.
Starlink’s presence in Congo also fits into a broader strategic push across Africa. The service has recently launched in several other African nations, with plans to expand further in the coming months. By targeting areas with low internet penetration, Starlink aims to bridge the digital divide and contribute to economic growth through digital inclusion.
The return of Starlink to Congo signals a progressive shift in the country’s approach to innovation and connectivity. With improved oversight and cooperation between the government and tech companies, such partnerships are becoming essential in addressing Africa’s digital infrastructure gaps.
As Starlink begins operations, its success in Congo could serve as a blueprint for other African countries looking to enhance their internet ecosystems. With growing demand for fast and affordable internet, especially in hard-to-reach areas, satellite-based solutions like Starlink offer a scalable and immediate solution.
While challenges around affordability, digital literacy, and device accessibility remain, the availability of Starlink marks a hopeful turning point in Congo’s journey toward digital transformation. By enabling more people to get online, it paves the way for broader economic and social opportunities in a rapidly digitizing world.
As of March 28, 2025, there are 7,135 Starlink satellites in orbit, with 7,105 active. In 2023, the total number of active satellites was 9,115, meaning Starlink satellites comprised roughly 78% of all active satellites at that time, a proportion likely similar in early 2025 given their continued launches.
