What You Need to Know
The Central African Republic has signed an agreement with Starlink, a subsidiary of SpaceX, to provide satellite internet services. This initiative aims to improve internet access, particularly in rural areas with limited connectivity. The agreement was signed in Bangui under the supervision of President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, marking a significant step towards enhancing the country’s digital..
Africa. The Central African Republic has signed an agreement in the capital, Bangui, with Starlink, a subsidiary of SpaceX, to launch satellite internet services in the country.
The agreement greenlights the start of service, although the commercial launch date has not yet been specified.
The event was overseen by President Faustin-Archange Touadéra and follows discussions held weeks earlier in the United States during an international summit.
Authorities have confirmed that the new technology will provide high-speed and reliable connectivity, especially in rural and isolated areas where internet access remains limited due to weak terrestrial infrastructure.
The U.S. embassy in Bangui welcomed the agreement, considering it a step that could drive economic growth, attract investments, and open avenues for international cooperation.
It is noteworthy that the Central African Republic faces one of the lowest internet penetration rates on the continent, with coverage primarily concentrated in Bangui, while other regions suffer from weak fixed and mobile networks.
In this context, Starlink is viewed as a solution to expand national coverage, support government digital services, and enhance remote education and telemedicine.
The Central African Republic has long struggled with low internet penetration rates, with much of the coverage concentrated in the capital, Bangui. The lack of reliable infrastructure has hindered access to digital services across the country, particularly in rural and isolated regions.
The introduction of Starlink’s satellite internet services is expected to address these challenges by providing high-speed and reliable connectivity. This development follows discussions held in the United States prior to the signing, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in improving the country’s technological landscape.
