Vodacom Group has announced a landmark partnership with Starlink, the world’s largest satellite broadband provider, to deliver high-speed, low-latency internet connectivity across Africa. The collaboration aims to accelerate digital inclusion by extending broadband coverage to underserved and rural areas—unlocking new opportunities for education, healthcare, business, and innovation.
Bridging Africa’s Digital Divide
Under the agreement, Vodacom will integrate Starlink’s satellite backhaul technology into its mobile network to strengthen performance and expand coverage to remote regions. This will enable reliable connectivity for rural schools, health centres, and communities that have historically lacked internet access.
The initiative represents a significant step in bridging the digital divide, bringing millions of Africans online and empowering them with access to essential digital services.
Boosting Business and Enterprise Connectivity
As part of the deal, Vodacom will be authorized to resell Starlink equipment and services to enterprise and small business customers across Africa. The company plans to tailor localized solutions that reflect the region’s economic realities and connectivity needs.
Vodacom is also introducing a suite of industry-focused products that leverage both terrestrial and satellite technologies. These include:
- Pay-as-you-use backup internet for flexible connectivity
- Unbreakable internet for mission-critical operations
- Device-as-a-service offerings for hardware affordability
- Branch network pooling for businesses with distributed operations
These solutions will cater to key sectors such as mining, oil and gas, agriculture, tourism, retail, and financial services.
Complementing Vodacom’s Existing Network
Vodacom’s partnership with Starlink complements its extensive 4G, 5G, fibre, microwave, and GEO satellite coverage across African markets. The integration of Starlink’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network ensures high-speed performance and resilience in areas where traditional infrastructure is not viable.
Aligned with Vodacom’s Vision 2030
The collaboration supports Vodacom’s Vision 2030, which targets growing its customer base to 260 million and expanding financial services users to 120 million within five years. By harnessing Starlink’s satellite capabilities, Vodacom moves closer to achieving universal connectivity and advancing its mission to connect people to a better future.
Executive Insights
“We are delighted to collaborate with Starlink, a move that accelerates our mission to connect every African to the internet. Low Earth orbit satellite technology will help bridge the digital divide where traditional infrastructure is not feasible, and this partnership will unlock new possibilities for the unconnected.”
— Shameel Joosub, Chief Executive Officer, Vodacom Group
“Starlink is already serving people, businesses, and organizations in 25 African countries. By collaborating with Vodacom, Starlink can deliver reliable, high-speed connectivity to even more customers, transforming lives and communities across the continent.”
— Chad Gibbs, Vice President of Starlink Operations, SpaceX
A New Era for Connectivity in Africa
The partnership between Vodacom and Starlink signals a major leap forward in Africa’s digital transformation journey. By combining terrestrial and satellite technologies, the two companies aim to make affordable, high-quality internet a reality for millions—driving economic growth, supporting innovation, and fostering inclusion across the continent.
