Satellite Internet Provider Starlink Gains Approval in Democratic Republic of Congo, a Region Where only 30% Benefit from Internet Connectivity
Here Comes Starlink to Brighter Internet Skies in Congo
Starlink, Elon Musk's satellite internet service, is winning hearts and connections across Africa. The latest to join the ever-growing list is the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), recently given the green light to operate. Reuters confirms the DRC as the newest African country to officially welcome Starlink.
For a while, things weren't looking so shiny for Starlink in the DRC. A previous ban had been imposed due to concerns about potential usage by rebel groups like the Rwandan-backed M23, which grabbed more territory in the eastern part of the country in 2024. But now, it's full steam ahead!
Bridging the Congo Digital Divide
DRC's internet connectivity leaves a lot to be desired, with only approximately 30% of the population online as of 2023 according to the International Telecommunication Union. Infrastructure constraints and ongoing conflicts have made it tricky to build terrestrial networks, especially in remote and rural regions. Starlink could be the reliable broadband connection these regions need.
In May 2025, the Congolese telecommunications and ICT regulatory body (ARPTC) granted Starlink the necessary licenses. This means Starlink DRC S.A., its local subsidiary, can now act as an internet service provider (ISP).
Starlink's African Adventure
Starlink brings the number of African countries offering its service, or planning to, up to 20, including Somalia and Lesotho, which also secured licenses in 2025. Despite starting off in Ghana in August 2024, Starlink still lacks a local office and customer support. They've been given a month to comply with national regulations.
The South African government initially blocked Starlink's launch due to Elon Musk's reluctance to meet Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) rules. However, they've now offered a workaround for compliance through investments in infrastructure and rural workforce development.
Image by Scott Evans
(Enrichment Data)
- Since June 2025, Starlink operates in 22 African countries, aiming to bridge the continent's digital divide by offering high-speed, low-latency internet access [4][5].
- Other active markets for Starlink include Nigeria, Malawi, Niger, and Sierra Leone [2][4][5].
- The satellite network's infrastructure-light approach allows it to provide coverage in remote and conflict-ridden regions, putting pressure on traditional telecom providers like MTN and Airtel to enhance services or reduce prices [4].
- Starlink poses regulatory challenges, prompting authorities to address issues of national security, data sovereignty, and local law compliance [2][4].
Despite the hurdles, Starlink's aggressive African expansion is reshaping the continent's connectivity landscape.
- The expansion of Starlink's satellite internet service into the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) could significantly bridge the digital divide in the country, as broadband connections are scarce, with only about 30% of the population online as of 2023.
- As Starlink continues to grow its African presence, entering 22 countries as of June 2025, it poses regulatory challenges that require authorities to address issues such as national security, data sovereignty, and local law compliance, putting pressure on traditional telecom providers like MTN and Airtel to enhance services or reduce prices.
