Starlink Launches in Niger, Secures License in Chad
- paolo bibat
- Mar 17
- 2 min read
SpaceX's Starlink has made significant strides in its African expansion, officially launching services in Niger and securing an operator license in Chad.
These developments mark important milestones for the satellite internet provider's growth on the continent.
Starlink's services are now commercially available in Niger, as announced by the country's Ministry of Communications, Post and Digital Economy on Thursday.
Residential and corporate Starlink kits can be purchased online and through authorized sellers. However, the government has imposed strict regulations on the service use:
• Kits are for personal or professional use only by the purchaser
• Sharing kits is prohibited
• Users are responsible for any misuse of their connection
This launch follows an agreement signed between Starlink and Niger's ruling military junta in November 2024.
Chad's Ministry of Telecommunications, Digital Economy and Digitalization announced that Starlink has signed its operating license. This development comes after extensive discussions to ensure Starlink's compliance with national regulatory, security, and economic requirements. The license approval process began in 2021 and was initially approved in November 2024.
Both Niger and Chad expect Starlink's entry to boost internet adoption:
• Niger's internet penetration: 32% (as of September 2024)
• Chad's internet penetration: 13.2% (as of early 2025)
However, the impact will largely depend on Starlink's pricing strategy. In other African countries, Starlink's monthly subscription is cheaper than local ISPs in five out of 16 countries where it operates.
While Starlink's expansion promises improved connectivity, several challenges remain:
Hardware costs: Starlink kits can be expensive, ranging from $178 to $381 in other African countries.
Regulatory compliance: Starlink must adhere to local regulations and integrate with existing telecom infrastructure.
Competition: The entry of Starlink may encourage other companies to invest in the telecommunications sector, potentially leading to lower prices and improved services.
As Starlink continues its African expansion, its ability to address these challenges while providing reliable and affordable internet access will be crucial in bridging the digital divide in countries like Niger and Chad.
