Starlink‘s broadband services were banned last March. Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast and Chad had made similar arrangements. Due to the company’s lack of approval in these countries, its use was considered illegal. In Mali, the transitional authorities also deplored its use by armed groups. Wednesday, October 9, in the Council of Ministers, Bamako finally reversed its decision.
Published on: 10/11/2024 – 8:03 p.m.
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Regulating rather than prohibiting, the Malian transitional authorities had to do so, after noting that the kits Starlink continued to operate Malidespite the ban announced last March.
The importation and marketing of Starlink equipment is therefore once again authorized, for a period of six months, the time of “ establish a regulatory framework and a registration and identification platform for all users », according to the press release published at the end of the Council of Ministers of October 9, 2024.
Integrating the access provider into the legal market could open the way to taxation of Starlink, which has so far escaped the obligations to which telecommunications operators holding a license in the country are subject. Above all, Bamako wants to know precisely who uses Starlink.
Its unique, very dense satellite network, in “low orbit”, makes it possible to connect to the internet in the most remote areas. This is why this supplier is widely used in the desert reaches of the North, by NGOs, by businesses or by individuals. But also by all the armed groups present, jihadists or rebels.
By legalizing Starlink, the Malian state wishes to have “official interlocutors” to try to control the use of the equipment.
Read alsoIn West Africa, telecoms authorities remain reluctant about the success of Starlink
Analysis of the Ban on Starlink’s Broadband Services in Mali
In a recent development, the Malian government has banned the commercialization of Starlink’s broadband services in the country. This decision comes as no surprise, as neighboring countries such as Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, and Chad had already taken similar measures. But what led to this ban, and what implications does it have for the people of Mali?
According to reports, the Malian government cited two main reasons for the ban [[1]]. The first reason is the lack of approval from the relevant authorities, which made the use of Starlink’s services illegal in the country. The second reason is related to the risks associated with the commercialization of these services.
The Malian government has also announced the dismantling of Starlink’s terminals on the national territory, citing the need to protect its citizens from the risks associated with the use of these services [[2]]. This move is seen as a measure to prevent the unauthorized use of Starlink’s services, which could potentially compromise the country’s national security.
The ban on Starlink’s services in Mali is not an isolated incident. In fact, the company’s “Direct to Cell” service, which promises to provide internet connectivity directly to mobile devices, has been met with skepticism by the Malian government [[3]]. This service, which was launched by Starlink in 2023, aims to provide internet connectivity to remote and underserved areas. However, the Malian government has expressed concerns about the security implications of this service, citing the potential risks of unauthorized use and the lack of regulation.
the ban on Starlink’s broadband services in Mali is a complex issue that involves concerns about national security, regulation, and the protection of citizens. While the Malian government’s decision may seem drastic, it is clear that the authorities are taking a cautious approach to the introduction of new technologies in the country. As the world becomes increasingly dependent on digital technologies, it is essential for governments to balance the need for innovation with the need for regulation and security.
