President Boakai discusses potential launch of the satellite internet with Elon Musk
Date: 2024-09-02
Liberian
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has held a virtual meeting with Elon Musk,
CEO of Starlink, to discuss the potential launch of the satellite internet
service provider in Liberia. The meeting marked a significant step towards
improving Liberia's internet connectivity, which currently lags with only 30%
of its population having access to the internet.
The country's
telecom sector, dominated by Lonestar Cell MTN and Orange Liberia, has
struggled to expand services to rural areas due to infrastructural and
financial constraints. The high cost of internet services, with monthly fees
averaging $2.63 for basic broadband, has further exacerbated the digital
divide.
Starlink's
launch in Liberia could bridge this gap, providing faster and more affordable
internet access to the population. The global average data price is $3.12,
significantly lower than Liberia's lowest data price of $1.67 per 1GB for 30
days.
President
Boakai extended an invitation to Musk and his team to visit Liberia,
emphasizing his administration's commitment to continued engagement and
collaboration. With Starlink already operational in over 10 African countries,
Liberia could be the next beneficiary of this revolutionary satellite internet
service.
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
