After receiving approval for a licence, Elon Musk revealed that Starlink, his satellite internet service, had formally opened in Somalia.
Through a network of low-Earth orbit satellites, Starlink offers internet access, which is particularly helpful in isolated locations or those with inadequate communications infrastructure. The action follows World Bank data from 2022, which showed that just about 30% of Somalia’s population has internet access, and that connectivity is frequently erratic because of inadequate infrastructure.
Musk stated on X that “Starlink is now in Somalia” without providing any further information.
Mustafa Yasin Sheikh, Director General of Somalia’s National Communications Authority (NCA), commented on the action to BrandSpur digital news platform, saying: “Starlink’s entry into Somalia represents a significant milestone in our efforts to bridge the digital divide in our country, this partnership will especially benefit individuals and institutions in rural areas, where internet access has been extremely limited.”
Additionally, H.E. Mohamed Mo’allim, Minister of Communications and Technology, had this to say: “We welcome Starlink’s entry to Somalia. This initiative aligns with our vision to deliver affordable and accessible internet services to all Somalis, regardless of where they live.”
