Ghana is poised to launch Elon Musk’s Starlink internet service by the close of August 2024, according to an announcement by the National Communications Authority (NCA).
The regulatory body has confirmed that all required administrative and licensing formalities have been completed, clearing the path for Starlink to begin delivering its high-speed internet services across the country.
In a statement released on Thursday, August 22, 2024, the NCA disclosed that Starlink’s operations in Ghana would be managed by Space X Starlink GH LTD, a local branch of Musk’s SpaceX.
“Starlink will officially commence operations in Ghana by the end of this month. This follows the conclusion of all administrative and licensing procedures with the National Communications Authority (NCA). Starlink will be operated by Space X Starlink GH LTD,” the statement confirmed.
This marks a significant turnaround from the NCA’s stance in December 2023 when it declared Starlink’s operations illegal due to the absence of a license and proper equipment approval.
At that time, the public was warned against purchasing Starlink’s equipment, and distributors were ordered to halt all activities.
However, by March 2024, the tides began to shift as discussions around Starlink’s licensing resumed, fueled in part by widespread internet disruptions across West and Central Africa.
During a Parliamentary session, the Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful,hinted at the possibility of Starlink gaining authorization.
“We have licensed satellite gateway air stations, landing rights, and satellite air station networks. One web has already been licensed. Starlink is in the process of being licensed, and other operators are being encouraged to land in Ghana,” she stated.
Starlink, an ambitious project by SpaceX, aims to deliver high-speed, low-latency internet across the globe, with a particular focus on rural and remote areas that have long struggled with poor connectivity.