Starlink, the satellite internet service operated by SpaceX, has officially launched in Somalia three months after receiving an operating license from the regulatory agency.
The government in Somalia has realised its plans to make the Starlink service available nationwide, aiming to broaden internet access to remote areas.
In an announcement on X, Starlink confirmed that its high-speed, low-latency internet service is now fully functional in Somalia.
This launch represents a major advancement in enhancing connectivity for the country, particularly in rural and underserved locations where traditional internet infrastructure has proven inadequate or unreliable.
Despite the availability of undersea internet cables like the Eastern Africa Submarine Cable System (EASSy) and the Djibouti Africa Regional Express (DARE1), many rural regions in Somalia still lack connectivity due to insufficient terrestrial infrastructure.
Starlink is positioning itself as a viable connectivity solution for Somalia, providing service to areas outside conventional networks’ reach.
By utilising a constellation of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, Starlink eliminates the need for extensive ground infrastructure, allowing it to deliver high-speed internet directly to remote and underserved communities.
As stated on the Starlink website, individuals in Somalia can purchase a standard hardware kit for US$390, with monthly residential subscriptions available at US$70.
