The Democratic Republic of Congo on Friday granted a licence for satellite internet service provider Starlink to begin operations, reversing an earlier ban. The decision makes Congo the latest nation in Africa to approve the service operated by a unit of SpaceX, founded by Elon Musk.
Operations for Starlink are expected to commence in the country in the coming days, according to the Congolese Post and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority.
The central African nation faces significant connectivity challenges. Only about 30% of the population had internet access as of 2023, according to data from the International Telecommunication Union.
Government officials had previously expressed reservations about allowing access to Starlink. Military figures had cautioned that the service could potentially be used by rebel groups, including the Rwandan-backed M23, which has gained territory in the eastern part of the country.
In March 2024, the Congolese Post and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority had declared the use of Starlink banned, stating violators would face sanctions.
The authority announced on Friday that the license had been issued, paving the way for the company's launch. SpaceX's satellite internet provider is expanding across the continent, already operating in numerous African countries.
The company received licenses in April from Somalia and Lesotho, adding to its growing list of operational locations. Somalia recently stated Starlink was now available in Somalia.
Starlink is also pursuing opportunities in neighbouring Uganda. Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni recently stated he had a productive meeting with company representatives to discuss entry into the East African nation.
Reports regarding the license grant were published by Reuters and Business Insider.