Starlink goes live in Malawi
Date: 2023-08-01
Satellite broadband provider, Starlink has
officially launched its operation in Malawi as the company continues its
coverage expansion on the African continent.
Now Malawi has joined the ranks of 61 countries and 5 African countries that can enjoy the benefits of satellite internet service from Starlink, following its launches in Nigeria, Rwanda, Mozambique, and Kenya.
The journey to bring Starlink’s high-speed,
low-latency internet service to Malawi began in October 2022 when the Malawi
Communication Regulatory Authority (MACRA) granted the company its license. The
news of Starlink's arrival was met with great enthusiasm among Malawians, who were eager to
experience reliable internet connectivity that had previously been out of reach
for many in the country.
Neighbouring countries including Zimbabwe, Botswana, Tanzania,
and Zambia are believed to be next in line to welcome Starlink services in late
2023, presenting the potential for a digital revolution across Southern Africa.
South Africa eagerly awaited licensing approval from the
authorities, and Egypt set its sights on a 2024 service launch, recognizing the
giant potential of advanced internet connectivity.
To operate in South Africa and to provide its satellite-based
internet service in South Africa, Starlink will need to acquire an Individual
Electronic Communications Network Service (I-ECNS) and Individual Electronics
Communications Service license.
By:
Kanto Okanta
