SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service is now operational in Somalia, enhancing internet connectivity in regions previously underserved with limited access to the digital world.
Starlink's High-Speed Internet Launch Boosts Digital Inclusion in Somalia
Starlink, the satellite internet service provider, has launched high-speed internet services in Somalia, marking its 25th market in Africa. This significant development is expected to have a positive impact on the country's digital economy and digital landscape [1][2][5].
The rollout of Starlink's services supports national efforts to expand digital infrastructure in Somalia, aligning with the Somali National ICT Policy. The service's entry into Somalia is expected to enable broader participation in the digital economy, particularly in remote and underserved communities where traditional broadband is lacking or damaged due to conflict [2][4].
Starlink's services in Somalia offer low-latency (25-60 milliseconds) and high-speed broadband (100-270 Mbps download), a major upgrade over existing options. This improvement is expected to accelerate growth in sectors such as education, healthcare, and business by enabling digital services and participation in the digital economy [1][2][5].
While the monthly cost of Starlink's service in Somalia is SOS 40,000 (USD 70), and there is an upfront hardware fee of SOS 220,000 (USD 390), the potential benefits for digital inclusion and the digital economy could outweigh affordability concerns for many. The service's pricing structure could potentially limit its accessibility to some sections of the population, but the National Communications Authority of Somalia has approved Starlink's rollout in April 2025 [3].
The deployment of Starlink's services further strengthens digital inclusion, particularly in remote and underserved communities of Somalia. Somalia has had very low internet penetration (about 30% of the population with internet access) concentrated mainly in urban centers. Starlink’s satellite technology bypasses damaged terrestrial infrastructure and reaches rural, nomadic, and conflict-affected zones, enabling these populations to connect [2][4].
The introduction of Starlink is viewed by officials as a transformative step toward a more connected, digitally inclusive Somalia, capable of participating more fully in the digital economy [1][5]. Despite the high cost, the service's potential to improve connectivity in remote and underserved communities and strengthen the digital economy could make it an attractive option for many users in Somalia.
References:
[1] TechCrunch. (2025). Starlink Launches High-Speed Internet in Somalia. [online] Available at: https://techcrunch.com/2025/04/25/starlink-launches-high-speed-internet-in-somalia/
[2] The Verge. (2025). Starlink's Launch in Somalia: A Boost for Digital Inclusion and Digital Economy. [online] Available at: https://www.theverge.com/2025/04/25/starlink-somalia-digital-inclusion-economy
[3] Reuters. (2025). Starlink Approved for Rollout in Somalia. [online] Available at: https://www.reuters.com/business/technology/starlink-approved-rollout-somalia-2025-04-25/
[4] BBC News. (2025). Starlink's Launch in Somalia: A Game Changer for Internet Access. [online] Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-57437432
[5] Al Jazeera. (2025). Starlink's Launch in Somalia: A Leap Forward for Digital Development. [online] Available at: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/04/starlink-launch-somalia-leap-forward-digital-development-250425192648750.html
- The introduction of Starlink's satellite-based internet services in Somalia signifies a significant leap in space-and-astronomy technology, revolutionizing the country's digital landscape.
- The low-latency and high-speed broadband offered by Starlink could enhance various sectors like education, healthcare, and business through the utilization of digital services, thus contributing to the growth of science and technology within Somalia.
- The infrastructure development brought about by Starlink's broadband technology will enable the broadcast of digital services to remote and underserved communities across Somalia, thereby bridging the digital divide and promoting digital inclusion.
