Vodacom Group has announced a key agreement with Starlink, the world’s largest satellite broadband provider, to deliver high-speed, low-latency broadband internet to millions of businesses across Africa and to expand rural network coverage.
A key requirement for the service to launch in South Africa, and other markets, is the completion of individual regulatory approvals.
Asked in which markets would this partnership apply, a Vodacom spokesperson stated: “We aim to launch these services across our footprint once individual regulatory approvals are completed, including South Africa.
“Individual market announcements will be made as and when the requisite approvals are obtained.
“The master agreement between Vodacom Group and Starlink has been signed so is effective immediately.”
Strategic Vision and Impact
The collaboration is designed to bridge the digital divide and is a key part of Vodacom’s Vision 2030 strategy.
“We are delighted to collaborate with Starlink, a move that accelerates our mission to connect every African to the internet,” said Vodacom Group CEO, Shameel Joosub.
“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.”
The partnership will focus on:
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Connecting the Unconnected: Using Starlink’s satellite backhaul to expand Vodacom’s mobile network coverage and performance in remote areas, connecting schools, health centres, and communities.
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Enterprise Solutions: Vodacom will be authorized to resell Starlink equipment and services to business customers, creating tailored solutions for the African market.
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Complementary Technology: Starlink’s low Earth orbit (LEO) service will be added to Vodacom’s existing portfolio of 4G, 5G, fibre, and other technologies.
“Starlink is already serving people, businesses, and organizations 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,” said Chad Gibbs, Vice President of Starlink Operations at SpaceX.
Regulatory and Political Context
The announcement comes as Starlink navigates regulatory landscapes across the continent.
In South Africa, Starlink has formally endorsed proposed Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) policy reforms that would allow foreign companies like SpaceX to participate in Equity Equivalent Investment Programmes (EEIPs) as an alternative to a direct 30% black ownership mandate.
This proposed policy has faced opposition. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have vowed to challenge it, stating in May: “Granting special exemptions to billionaires like Elon Musk compromises South Africa’s sovereignty and economic empowerment agenda.”
