MTN Zambia Plans to Offer Starlink's Internet Services to Enhance Rural Internet Accessibility
In an exciting development, MTN Zambia has partnered with SpaceX's Starlink to become an official reseller of Starlink's satellite internet service[1][2]. This collaboration aims to expand high-speed internet access, particularly in rural and underserved areas of Zambia, where traditional infrastructure is often costly or impractical.
MTN Zambia will offer Starlink Business packages tailored for enterprises, NGOs, and government institutions, providing reliable, low-latency broadband connectivity[1][2]. This move aligns with MTN's broader vision of delivering a modern connected life for everyone and supports Zambia's digital transformation agenda.
The use of Starlink’s satellite technology bypasses the infrastructural barriers associated with laying fiber or other conventional means, marking a pioneering effort in Zambia's connectivity landscape and setting an example for similar initiatives in other African countries[1]. This initiative coincides with Starlink's broader expansion efforts in Africa, including launches in neighboring countries[4].
MTN Zambia will provide installation services for Starlink in the country, and customers can buy and activate Starlink kits through selected MTN outlets or dedicated account managers[1][2]. Additionally, MTN will offer local customer support for Starlink in Zambia, ensuring seamless service and addressing any queries or issues that may arise.
According to Abbad Reda, CEO of MTN Zambia, this partnership demonstrates MTN's commitment to bridging the digital divide in Zambia[3]. By offering Starlink's low-latency broadband to communities, businesses, and institutions, the collaboration aims to extend connectivity to Zambia's most remote communities, thereby empowering them to access improved economic and social opportunities.
In conclusion, the partnership between MTN Zambia and Starlink is a significant step towards digital inclusion and internet access in rural and underserved areas of Zambia. This partnership is reported by IT News Africa.
[1] IT News Africa. (2023). MTN Zambia Partners with SpaceX's Starlink for Satellite Internet Service. Retrieved from https://www.itnewsafrica.com/2023/03/mtn-zambia-partners-with-spacexs-starlink-for-satellite-internet-service/ [2] MTN Group. (2023). MTN Zambia and Starlink Partner to Deliver Satellite Internet Services. Retrieved from https://www.mtn.com/newsroom/press-releases/2023/mtn-zambia-and-starlink-partner-to-deliver-satellite-internet-services [3] Zambia Daily Mail. (2023). Abbad Reda: MTN Zambia's Starlink Partnership Demonstrates Commitment to Bridging Digital Divide. Retrieved from https://www.daily-mail.co.zm/2023/03/22/abbad-reda-mtn-zambias-starlink-partnership-demonstrates-commitment-to-bridging-digital-divide/ [4] SpaceX. (2023). Starlink's African Expansion. Retrieved from https://www.spacex.com/starlink/africa/
- This partnership between MTN Zambia and Starlink not only aligns with the vision of delivering a modern connected life, but also marks a significant leap in the integration of science, technology, and space-and-astronomy in Zambia's digital transformation.
- The use of Starlink's satellite technology in Zambia, as a part of this collaboration, showcases the potential role of space-and-astronomy and technology in overcoming traditional infrastructure barriers and fostering economic and social growth.
