Senegal aims to bring 1 million citizens online by 2026 through satellite antennas.
The Minister of Communication, Telecommunications and Digital Economy, Alioune Sall, unveiled the initiative during a National Assembly session on his ministry’s 2026 budget. Sall called the plan a crucial step to bringing government services to communities long outside network coverage.
“Deployment starts before year-end,” Sall said, explaining that satellite technology will bridge gaps in fibre and 4G. The project uses multiple technologies to reach isolated areas.
Sall said connectivity will be free, with emphasis on border areas, healthcare posts, remote administrative sites, and schools with limited access. He also noted Senegal is preparing a digital version of the national criminal record to advance its digital agenda.
The satellite rollout comes as Senegal works to close its digital divide through infrastructure, policy reforms, and partnerships.
In September 2025, ARTP Director-General Dahirou Thiam met ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin to strengthen regulatory ties, helping shape Senegal’s digital landscape.
Infrastructure momentum is growing. PAIX Data Centres began construction of a new facility in Dakar in January 2025, with phase one scheduled for 2026. This follows a May 2024 financing deal with British International Investment to support telecom development.
Senegal has expanded network access for years, launching GAINDESAT in October 2023 and introducing new roaming in August 2023, so subscribers can use multiple networks seamlessly.
As of October 2025, Senegal had 22.3 million mobile subscriptions and 11.5 million Internet users, for a 60.6% penetration rate.
With the new satellite antenna program, the government aims to raise coverage, ensuring even Senegal’s most remote communities join the digital world.
