Vodacom and Starlink have signed a deal that will bring the satellite internet company’s “high-speed, low-latency broadband internet to millions of businesses across Africa and to expand rural network coverage,” according to an announcement from Vodacom today.
Before you get too excited, though, the language of the announcement is murky enough that we can’t tell if South Africa, which has had problems getting the satellite internet service licensed in the country, is on the guest list. We’ve asked for clarification, but at this time, it’s unknown whether South Africans get to participate.
Starlink for me?
Vodacom operates in 47 different African countries, meaning that every instance of “across Africa” used in the announcement could be technically correct while leaving SA customers out of the loop. Still, adding Starlink’s satellite coverage to Vodacom’s network — the main aim of the partnership — could well “accelerate network coverage expansion while increasing network performance in rural areas” around the continent. That’s a good thing, but we’d still be rather bitter if we didn’t get to play.
Vodacom CEO Shameel Joosub said, “We are delighted to collaborate with Starlink, a move that accelerates our mission to connect every African to the internet. 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.”
Starlink’s Chad Gibbs added, “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.”
Notice how South Africa hasn’t been mentioned in either statement at all? Stuff is awaiting confirmation, one way or the other, on whether the newly-inked deal will include this country or whether it’ll be reserved for the other 46 countries Vodacom services. It’s fine. It’s fine. It’s not like being picked last for a sports team or anything. Really.
UPDATE (12/1025, 09h47): A Vodacom spokesperson has told Stuff: “We cannot confirm this [Starlink’s arrival in SA]. However, we aim to launch these services across our footprint once individual regulatory approvals are completed. Individual market announcements will be made as and when the requisite approvals are obtained.”
