Eutelsat has announced a partnership with the non-profit organisation unconnected.org to launch satellite-powered community Wi-Fi in underserved regions of Tanzania, with aspirations to expand this initiative throughout Africa.
As part of this collaboration, unconnected.org will introduce Eutelsat’s KONNECT community Wi-Fi service to local entities in Tanzania, including Internet Service Providers (ISPs), non-governmental organisations (NGOs), system integrators, and government agencies.
Mea Thompson, Chief Commercial Officer of unconnected.org, noted that the community Wi-Fi initiative will utilise a commercial model to accelerate ROI (return on investment), increase digital access in remote areas, and promote sustainable, long-term connectivity.
“By reducing the cost of backhaul, Eutelsat KONNECT facilitates business models that enable local ISPs and community partners to achieve a return on their investment while connecting those who currently lack internet access,” she explained in a press release. “This approach is essential for scaling digital access in an impactful and commercially viable manner.”
Philippe Baudrier, Eutelsat’s Vice President for Africa, mentioned that this project is designed not just for Tanzania but also aims to set the foundation for expansion into additional countries across Africa.
“Through Eutelsat KONNECT, we are witnessing the significant benefits that satellite broadband can bring to communities across Africa—impacting schools, clinics, and local businesses,” he remarked. “Teamwork with unconnected.org allows us to broaden our outreach, fostering sustainable, community-based connectivity that provides genuine social and economic benefits.”
In February 2025, Eutelsat revealed that its KONNECT satellite significantly contributed to its commitment within the Partner2Connect Digital Coalition initiative, connecting 1 million underserved individuals in sub-Saharan Africa to high-speed satellite internet two years ahead of the target schedule.
