Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite internet service business founded by US entrepreneur Elon Musk, has launched in Sierra Leone, expanding its global reach. Sierra Leone has become the 100th country to access Starlink’s high-speed, low-latency internet service.
Sierra Leone is the eighth African country to use Starlink’s low-Earth orbit connection technology. Starlink announced the milestone on X, adding, “Starlink is now available in Sierra Leone!” This is the 100th country, territory, or other market worldwide where Starlink’s high-speed, low-latency internet is available.”
Starlink was granted an operational license in Sierra Leone a year ago, making it the fifth African country to do so. The move is likely to considerably advance Sierra Leone’s objective of universal connectivity while also transforming the educational landscape.
Starlink’s coverage has significantly increased since its launch in Africa in 2022. The service has almost 6,000 satellites in its constellation, with over 5,200 actively functioning. Starlink provides internet connectivity to over 3 million subscribers in 100 countries and territories.
Several African countries that had previously banned Starlink have now granted it operating permits. In April 2024, Ghana’s National Communications Authority (NCA) cleared SpaceX’s Starlink, reversing a four-month suspension. The Ministry of Communications and Digitalization had already endorsed Ghana’s Satellite Licensing Framework.
Starlink received regulatory license to operate in Zimbabwe and Botswana, following previous application rejections. Furthermore, the Rwanda Space Agency has granted Starlink permission to launch its services in Rwanda.
Starlink’s revolutionary technology has the potential to transcend the digital divide, giving reliable internet connection to even the most remote areas. This expansion has the ability to increase global connectedness and development.