Rwanda and SpaceX Partner to Roll Out Starlink Internet Nationwide
Rwanda signs deal with SpaceX to expand Starlink nationwide; first gateway due by end of 2025.
Rwanda has taken a significant step toward enhancing nationwide internet connectivity by signing a partnership agreement with SpaceX to deploy Starlink satellite internet across the country. This collaboration is set to expand digital access to underserved communities and bolster critical sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and rural services.
Starlink Gateway to Be Established by End of 2025
As part of the agreement, Rwanda will host its first dedicated Starlink gateway, which is slated for installation by the end of 2025. This infrastructure will be integrated into the national fiber backbone, ensuring improved internet speed, capacity, and reliability for users across both urban and rural areas. The announcement came following a meeting between Rwanda’s Minister of ICT and Innovation, Hon. Yves Iradukunda, and senior SpaceX executives. During the discussions, both parties reviewed current operations and charted strategies for scaling connectivity to benefit more communities across the nation.
Currently, Starlink serves approximately 5,000 users in Rwanda, but this partnership aims to significantly expand that number by making the service more widely accessible.
Spectrum Agreement Finalized
A critical milestone achieved during the negotiations was the finalization of a spectrum agreement with the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) and the Rwanda Space Agency (RSA). This agreement clears the way for the establishment of the Starlink gateway and underscores Rwanda’s commitment to advancing its digital infrastructure.
Focus on Digital Inclusion and Community Impact
The agreement emphasizes digital inclusion, with explicit plans to connect schools and underserved communities to high-speed internet. Officials referenced outcomes from pilot projects in Rwanda and similar Starlink deployments in countries like Mexico and Niger as guiding models for this initiative. Additionally, the partnership will explore innovative financing solutions and collaboration with donors to ensure the long-term sustainability of the service.
Supporting Key Sectors and Rwanda’s Digital Agenda
Beyond general connectivity, the expanded availability of Starlink is expected to support critical sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and rural service delivery. These improvements are aligned with Rwanda’s broader strategy to leverage satellite technologies as part of its national digital transformation agenda.
This landmark partnership with SpaceX represents a bold step toward bridging the digital divide in Rwanda and enhancing the country’s technological infrastructure for the future.
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