Elon Musk's Starlink, a satellite internet project, has made significant strides in Africa, expanding its services to at least 18 countries on the continent. This development marks a significant milestone in the company's mission to provide high-speed internet access to underserved regions. With over 2.6 million users worldwide, Starlink is poised to bridge the digital divide in Africa, where only about 40% of the 1.3 billion people are online.

The journey began in January 2023, when Starlink launched in Nigeria, the continent's most populous country. Since then, the company has expanded its services to several other African countries, including Kenya, Mozambique, Rwanda, Malawi, and Zambia. The latest additions to the list include Niger, which received a five-year license to operate in March 2025, and Liberia, which went live in January 2025.

Despite the progress, Starlink has faced regulatory hurdles in some countries, hindering its expansion. For instance, South Africa, Africa's most developed economy, has yet to greenlight Starlink's operations, despite ongoing talks. This delay has left many South Africans seeking alternative internet options.

Starlink's African expansion is part of a broader effort to provide global internet coverage using a network of around 5,500 satellites launched by SpaceX since 2019. The company's ambitious plans aim to connect the world's underserved populations, with Africa being a key focus area. With its low-latency, high-speed internet services, Starlink is well-positioned to make a significant impact on the continent's digital landscape.

The full list of African countries where Starlink is operational includes Nigeria, Rwanda, Mozambique, Kenya, Malawi, Zambia, Benin, Eswatini, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Madagascar, Botswana, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Burundi, Cape Verde, Liberia, and Niger. As Starlink continues to expand its services, it is likely to have a profound impact on Africa's economic and social development.

Industry experts believe that Starlink's expansion in Africa could have far-reaching implications for the continent's digital economy. With reliable and fast internet access, African businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals can tap into global opportunities, driving growth and innovation. As the digital divide narrows, Africa is poised to become a key player in the global digital landscape.

In conclusion, Starlink's expansion in Africa marks a significant milestone in the company's mission to provide global internet access. As the company continues to push boundaries, it is likely to have a profound impact on the continent's economic and social development. With its ambitious plans and commitment to bridging the digital divide, Starlink is set to play a key role in shaping Africa's digital future.