Vodacom has announced an agreement with Starlink to deliver high-speed, low-latency broadband internet to millions of businesses across Africa and to expand rural network coverage.
Integrating Starlink’s satellite backhaul into Vodacom’s mobile network will accelerate network coverage expansion while increasing network performance in rural areas. The collaboration will deliver robust connectivity to remote schools, health centres, and communities, empowering millions with access to digital services and information.
Vodacom will be authorised to resell Starlink equipment and services to enterprise and small business customers in Africa, while retaining the flexibility to create localized value propositions that consider the unique requirements and affordability of the African market.
Vodacom created a suite of products targeting mining, oil & gas, agriculture, tourism, retail and financial services. Leveraging terrestrial and space-based technologies, these products include pay-as-you-use backup internet; 100% unbreakable internet; device as a service, and branch network pooling.
The new offering will complement Vodacom’s existing 4G,5G, fibre, MPLS, microwave and GEO-sat coverage.
Vodacom Group CEO Shameel Joosub comments: “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.”
Chad Gibbs, vice-president of Starlink Operations at SpaceX, adds: “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.”