2024-11-06 23:11:00
An agreement was signed between the Nigerian authorities and the satellite internet service provider, owned by American billionaire Elon Musk, Starlink, which is authorized after having been banned for a long time. Objective: to cover almost the entire territory and improve connectivity in a country where the internet coverage rate is still very low.
Whether in 2G, 3G or 4G, internet coverage does not exceed a third of the territory at Niger. After years of refusal, the authorities said yes to Starlink. Main advantage of the offer: broadband at an affordable rate with 200 Mb/s for around 25,000 FCFA per month. A turning point for Nigerien businesses, according to economist Ibrahim Adamou Louché: “What will change with Starlink is that the deployment of broadband will be very important for the entrepreneurship sector. Many business leaders complain about the poor quality of existing offers. With Starlink, this fear will be lifted, companies will be able to develop their business.”
Starlink’s new African strategy
For a long time, the Nigerien authorities feared the use of this network by terrorist groups, but the benefit-risk ratio seems to have changed. “ With an actor like Starlink, the coverage problem is solved”assures Antony Adopo, digital specialist in Africa.
He explains that Starlink’s strategy on the continent has also evolved. The access provider now sends its teams to negotiate for convince African countries one by one. « Starlink has contacted several states to reassure them about the various fears they may have, such as compliance with their regulatory frameworksexplains Antony Adopo, there were several stages. The first was when countries noticed that Starlink was operating on their territories without having been authorized, so there was an outcry to say that it is against the law. Then, discussions between governments and the operator. And once they understand each other, third step: acceptance of this new actor ».
Also readMali: the internet provider Starlink is authorized again, but it will be regulated
What digital sovereignty?
There remains the challenge of digital sovereignty. How will the data collected and the communications that pass through the network be controlled? Many countries like Cameroonor the Democratic Republic of Congo still refuse to authorize Starlink. “ Countries, in reality, are not banning Starlink, but are considering how to bring in this player while preserving the local ecosystem, assure Antony Adopothere are local operators who have been investing for a long time, who need a lot of budget to be able to connect everyone. It is this equation that is being considered in most African countries.”
After Liberia recently, Niger will become the 15th African country to authorize Starlink on its territory. In Kenya, this Monday, November 4, the American operator suspended all new subscriptions citing an overload of its network.
Also readSpace: Starlink satellites and their strong waves are confusing the research of astrophysicists
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**Interview with Antony Adopo, Digital Specialist in Africa**
**Interviewer:** Good evening, Antony. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent partnership between Starlink and Niger’s military junta. This marks a significant shift in Niger’s approach to internet connectivity. What are your thoughts on the implications of this agreement?
**Antony Adopo:** Good evening, and thank you for having me. This agreement is indeed a turning point for Niger, a country that has struggled with very low internet coverage despite the growing global digital landscape. The partnership with Starlink promises access to high-speed internet, which is crucial for a variety of sectors—most notably for entrepreneurship.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned entrepreneurship. Can you elaborate on how improved connectivity could benefit businesses in Niger?
**Antony Adopo:** Certainly. With internet coverage currently limited to only about a third of the territory, many local businesses have faced significant hurdles due to poor service quality. Now, with Starlink offering broadband speeds of 200 Mb/s at an affordable price, businesses will be better equipped to operate, innovate, and compete. Enhanced connectivity can facilitate e-commerce, online marketing, and digital communication—essentially unlocking potential that has been stifled by inadequate internet access.
**Interviewer:** There had been concerns regarding the use of Starlink by terrorist groups. What has changed in the authorities’ perspective to allow this partnership now?
**Antony Adopo:** The Nigerien authorities had valid concerns about the potential misuse of a robust communication network. However, the decision to partner with Starlink suggests a shift in their risk assessment. They now believe that the benefits of improved infrastructure and connectivity outweigh the risks. Starlink has worked to reassure countries with tailored strategies, addressing regulatory concerns and emphasizing the positive impacts on security and development.
**Interviewer:** How do you see Starlink’s strategy evolving on the African continent in the future?
**Antony Adopo:** Starlink seems to be taking a proactive approach by negotiating directly with individual African nations. This strategy allows them to address specific concerns and adapt their offerings to local needs. As more countries recognize the importance of connectivity for economic growth, I expect we’ll see more partnerships like this one. It’s about building trust and demonstrating that satellite internet can be a tool for development rather than a threat.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Antony, for shedding light on this significant development in Niger and the potential ripple effects across Africa.
**Antony Adopo:** Thank you for having me. It’s an exciting time for digital connectivity in Africa, and I look forward to seeing the positive changes that will unfold.
