The satellite revolution reshaping telecom operators in Africa is moving faster than ever before. In January 2025, the African Development Bank (AfDB) approved a $160 million loan to AXIAN Telecom. This bold investment aimed to boost digital access across nine African countries using 4G and 5G technologies. It marked a major step forward in narrowing Africa’s digital divide.
The Rise of Starlink Across Africa
At the same time, Starlink, the U.S.-based satellite internet provider, announced aggressive plans to expand. By the end of 2025, Starlink aims to cover nearly 40 African countries. It promises high-speed, low-latency service even in remote areas like Chad, where only 12% of citizens were connected in 2022. However, controversy quickly followed. Starlink operates without building local infrastructure or partnering with African telecom companies. In response, nations like Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, and South Africa blocked or confiscated unauthorized equipment. Their actions reflected growing concerns about digital sovereignty and national security.
A New African-Led Alternative Emerges
Facing this challenge, African telecom operators are taking bold steps. They are working to create a shared space-based connectivity solution. Unlike Starlink, this model empowers local companies to maintain independence, just as they control ground-based networks today. Industry leaders like Charles Delfieux, CEO and Founder of Constellation Technologies & Operations (CTO), are at the forefront. “Space is the new frontier for telecom operators,” says Delfieux. His company is building a groundbreaking system designed specifically for African needs. This approach reflects the true spirit of the satellite revolution reshaping telecom operators in Africa.
The Power of Very Low Earth Orbit Satellites
Constellation Technologies & Operations (CTO) plans to launch a constellation of Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) satellites. These satellites will enable African operators to deliver fast, low-latency internet directly from space. Importantly, operators will use their own 5G mmWave spectrum to maintain full control over services. This innovation offers a major advantage. It drastically reduces the need for heavy capital investments typically required for traditional infrastructure expansion. It allows rural and underserved areas to connect without waiting for towers or cables.
Why Space-Based Connectivity Matters
The strategy developed by CTO works differently from foreign models. Instead of competing with African telecom operators, CTO partners with them. Their approach offers sustainable, affordable, and high-performance internet. For isolated communities across Africa, this shift means real hope. No massive towers. No complicated installations. Just scalable, sovereign internet, fully controlled by African companies themselves.
Africa’s Crucial Choice Ahead
As the digital revolution accelerates, African telecom companies face a critical decision. They can either surrender control to external players like Starlink, or invest in African-led, African-owned space networks like those envisioned by Constellation Technologies & Operations. The satellite revolution reshaping telecom operators in Africa gives them the tools to claim digital sovereignty, drive economic growth, and secure national independence. With so much at stake, the path forward must be decided quickly and wisely Just Now News.
For more information about Constellation Technologies & Operations, visit www.constellation.global.
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