Vodacom Partners with Starlink to Deliver High-Speed Satellite Broadband to Millions of African Businesses and Expand Rural Connectivity

Vodacom Group has signed a landmark agreement with Starlink, the world’s leading satellite broadband provider, to bring high-speed, low-latency internet to millions of businesses across Africa and significantly expand network coverage in rural and underserved areas.

The partnership integrates Starlink’s advanced low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite technology as a backhaul solution into Vodacom’s mobile networks, dramatically improving connectivity in remote regions. This strategic collaboration will empower schools, healthcare facilities, and rural communities with reliable access to digital services, education, and economic opportunities.

Transformative Enterprise and Rural Connectivity

Under the agreement, Vodacom becomes an authorized reseller of Starlink equipment and services for enterprise and small business customers across its African footprint. The company will tailor solutions to meet local market needs, ensuring affordability and relevance.

Drawing on insights from key industries—including mining, oil & gas, agriculture, tourism, retail, and financial services—Vodacom has developed a suite of innovative connectivity products powered by both terrestrial and space-based technologies. These include:

  Pay-as-you-use backup internet

  100% unbreakable connectivity

  Device-as-a-service models

  Branch network pooling

These offerings complement Vodacom’s existing portfolio of 4G, 5G, fiber, MPLS, microwave, and GEO satellite services, creating a robust, multi-layered network designed for resilience and performance.

A Strategic Step Toward Vision 2030

The partnership directly supports Vodacom’s Vision 2030 ambition to connect 260 million customers and grow its financial services user base to 120 million within five years. By leveraging Starlink as a complementary connectivity layer, Vodacom moves closer to achieving universal coverage and fulfilling its purpose of connecting everyone to a better future.

Leadership Voices

Shameel Joosub, CEO of Vodacom Group, stated:

“We are delighted to collaborate with Starlink, a move that accelerates our mission to connect every African to the internet. LEO satellite technology will help bridge the digital divide where traditional infrastructure is not feasible, unlocking new possibilities for the unconnected.”

Chad Gibbs, Vice President of Starlink Operations at SpaceX, added:

“Starlink is already serving people, businesses, and organizations in 25 African countries. By collaborating with Vodacom, we can deliver reliable, high-speed connectivity to even more customers, transforming lives and communities across the continent.”

This partnership marks a defining moment in Africa’s digital transformation, combining Vodacom’s deep market expertise with Starlink’s cutting-edge satellite technology to deliver inclusive, future-ready connectivity at scale.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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