MTN Explores LEO Satellite Partnerships to Enhance Rural Internet Access in Africa

MTN Partners with Satellite Providers for Internet Access in Africa

MTN, Africa’s largest mobile operator, is looking for partnerships with low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellite providers. The goal is to provide internet connectivity to rural and remote areas, according to Group CEO Ralph Mupita.

LEO satellites offer high-speed internet where traditional internet infrastructure is hard to set up. This move comes as satellite internet becomes a popular option in Africa, especially with services like Starlink from Elon Musk’s SpaceX.

Mupita stated, “To keep customers and businesses connected at all times, we must embrace satellite as an additional technology.” MTN is currently conducting trials with several LEO satellite operators for possible partnerships.

He added that MTN may resell satellite services to its enterprise customers in specific countries. Other operators are also seeking similar partnerships. For example, Vodacom, South Africa’s largest operator, partnered with Amazon’s Project Kuiper last year.

Mupita acknowledged the growing competition from LEO satellites. “We’re arranging ourselves to sure proof our businesses in key markets,” he said.

Starlink operates in several African countries but has faced challenges in places like South Africa. The South African regulatory body ICASA is developing rules for satellite internet providers.

Mupita emphasized that LEO operators should face the same regulations as traditional telecom operators. He said, “We ask for a level playing ground.”