Vodacom announces agreement with Starlink

Vodacom has announced an agreement with Starlink to deliver high-speed, low-latency broadband internet to millions of businesses across Africa and to expand rural network coverage. 

The mobile network operator said the collaboration marks a “crucial step in bridging the digital divide” and unlocking new opportunities for economic growth, education, and innovation across Africa.

Collaboration 

Commenting on the agreement, Vodacom Group Chief Executive Officer Shameel Joosub, said they are delighted to collaborate with Starlink. 

“It’s a move that accelerates our mission to connect every African to the internet. Low Earth orbit satellite technology will help bridge the digital divide where traditional infrastructure is not feasible, and this partnership will unlock new possibilities for the unconnected.” 

Starlink 

Chad Gibbs, the vice president of Starlink operations at SpaceX, added that Starlink was already serving people, businesses, and organisations in 25 African countries.

“By collaborating with Vodacom, Starlink can deliver reliable, high-speed connectivity to even more customers, transforming lives and communities across the continent.”

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Transformative 

Vodacom said the collaboration will have a “transformative Impact.”

“Integrating Starlink’s satellite backhaul into Vodacom’s mobile network will accelerate network coverage expansion while increasing network performance in rural areas. 

“The collaboration will deliver robust connectivity to remote schools, health centres, and communities, empowering millions with access to digital services and information,” Vodacom said. 

Starlink equipment 

Vodacom will also be authorized to resell Starlink equipment and services to enterprise and small business customers in Africa, while retaining the flexibility to create localized value propositions that consider the unique requirements and affordability of the African market.

“By listening to clients across a range of industries – mining, oil & gas, agriculture, tourism, retail and financial services – we have created a suite of relevant products. 

“Leveraging terrestrial and space-based technologies, these products include pay-as-you-use backup internet; 100% unbreakable internet; device as a service, and branch network pooling,” Vodacom said. 

Vision 2030

Vodacom said the collaboration aligns with Vodacom’s Vision 2030 strategy to grow its customer base to 260 million and its financial services customers to 120 million within five years. 

“By harnessing Starlink as a complementary layer, Vodacom is edging closer to universal coverage and reaffirming its commitment to connecting people to a better future.” 

Vodacom already offer’s 4G,5G, fiber, MPLS, Microwave and GEO Sat coverage across our markets saying that Starlink’s high-performance internet is a “perfect addition to our bouquet of customer centric offerings.”

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