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Starlink competitors pursue African internet expansion

Spacecoin and the Midnight Foundation announced a partnership to develop an encrypted messaging system using satellite technology, aimed at preventing government-imposed internet blackouts like those witnessed in Uganda and Iran this month. The collaboration seeks to create a peer-to-peer communications platform that operates independently of traditional internet infrastructure, which governments can easily disable during elections […]

Elon Musk’s Starlink internet blocked in South Africa

SpaceX chief executive Elon Musk, the world’s richest person with a net worth exceeding USD 600 billion, has reignited debate by claiming South Africa’s telecommunications regulations are preventing his satellite internet service Starlink from launching in the country because he is not Black. In a post on X on 8 January 2026, Musk stated: “Starlink […]

Starlink blocks its operations in Uganda ahead of elections

Elon Musk’s Starlink has blocked all satellite internet terminals in Uganda, complying with a government directive over unlicensed operations ahead of the upcoming 2026 general elections. The US-based company, operated by SpaceX, confirmed in a letter dated 2 January to the Uganda Communications Commission that it activated geofencing restrictions on 1 January, blocking service nationwide. […]

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Uganda bans Starlink equipment imports ahead of elections

Uganda has imposed tight restrictions on importing Starlink satellite internet equipment, requiring military approval just weeks before national elections on 15 January 2026, raising concerns over potential internet blackouts and digital control. The Uganda Revenue Authority then URA issued an internal memo on 19 December directing customs officials to halt clearance of *Starlink* devices, communication […]

Elon Musk becomes first person to surpass $700 billion net worth

Tesla chief Elon Musk has become the first person in history to surpass $700 billion in net worth, reaching $749 billion after a Delaware court reinstated his massive 2018 pay package. The surge followed the Delaware Supreme Court decision on 20 December to restore stock options worth $139 billion, overturning a 2024 ruling that had […]

Vodacom signs deal with Starlink to boost African connectivity

Africa’s largest mobile operator, has signed a deal with SpaceX’s Starlink to harness satellite technology to expand high-speed internet access across the continent, the company said on Wednesday. The partnership will see the Johannesburg-based firm use Starlink’s constellation of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to provide backhaul connectivity for its mobile networks. This approach promises […]

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Starlink Comeback: Is Africa the New Frontier?

Elon Musk’s Starlink is making significant strides in its quest for a comeback, focusing newfound investments and negotiations on the African continent. The question remains, however: Is Africa the new frontier for this satellite broadband service? As the company navigates a complex web of regulatory hurdles, licensing challenges, and the dire need for infrastructure, its […]

DR Congo grants license to Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet

The Democratic Republic of Congo has officially granted a license to Starlink, the satellite internet service operated by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, marking a significant policy shift after a previous ban. This decision comes as the country seeks to improve its low internet connectivity, which currently stands at around 30% of the population. Key Takeaways Congo […]

Airtel Africa and Starlink partner to enhance internet connectivity

Telecom giant Airtel Africa has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to deliver Starlink’s high-speed satellite internet services across the continent. This collaboration aims to enhance digital connectivity, particularly in underserved and rural areas, marking a significant step towards bridging the digital divide in Africa. Key Takeaways Airtel Africa partners with SpaceX to […]

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Starlink’s ambitious expansion in Africa faces significant hurdles

Elon Musk’s Starlink is making strides in its mission to provide satellite internet across Africa, having launched services in six new countries since January 2023. However, the ambitious goal of covering nearly three-quarters of the continent by the end of 2025 is fraught with challenges. Key Takeaways Starlink has launched services in six new African […]

SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet launches in Somalia

Billionaire, entrepreneur and Tesla CEO, Elon Musk announced via social media that SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service is now officially available in Somalia. This development comes after two and a half years of negotiations between Starlink and the Somali government, which has granted the company a license to operate within the country. The initiative aims […]

How Google’s Taara mirrors Starlink’s ambitions in Africa

In a significant move to enhance internet connectivity across Africa, Google has launched Taara, a groundbreaking new initiative aimed at providing high-speed internet access through innovative wireless technology that has the potential to revolutionize connectivity in the region. However, the question arises: could Taara mirror Starlink’s ambitious goals and aspirations in Africa? This development strategically […]

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