Rwanda becomes first country to launch Starlink’s Satellite internet service in East Africa
Date: 2023-02-24
Satellite–based internet service provider Starlink has officially launched its service in Kigali to kick-start its operations in Rwanda.
This places Rwanda as the first nation in East Africa and second on the African continent to offer Starlink’s services provided through advanced low-orbit satellites.
The launch ceremony which took place at the Kigali Convention Center (KCC), was attended by stakeholders from the country’s telecommunication sector.
Speaking during the launch, the Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire, disclosed that access to high-quality broadband is no longer a luxury in today’s digital age, and by launching Starlink services in Rwanda, the country is taking a significant step forward in its commitment to creating a smart nation that promotes inclusivity, advance the digital society, and boost the digital economy.
Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire
According to her Rwanda’s new broadband policy will help to spur investment, create jobs, and provide affordable and quality broadband services to all Rwandans.
She further hinted that the government aims to remove regulatory barriers that may hinder the entry of new technologies and services into the market through the promotion of healthy competition and innovation in the broadband industry.
“This approach will guarantee that all consumers have access to high-quality and affordable broadband services, regardless of their location or place of work,” the Minister of ICT and Innovation stated.
With the availability of Starlink satellite internet services, the government has planned to connect all schools with broadband internet. Currently, 500 remote schools have been selected to be equipped with satellite internet terminals, providing high-quality internet access and digital learning resources for both students and teachers.
The move according to government officials is expected to improve the quality of education in the country and increase connectivity in remote and rural areas. The satellite broadband services will also serve many other areas, connecting communities and empowering innovations.
