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Starlink, SpaceX’s Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite internet service, has officially launched in Botswana, marking a major milestone for the Southern African nation. This expansion into Botswana was confirmed by Rebecca Slick Hunter, Director of Starlink Global Licensing and Market Activation, who highlighted the country’s inclusion in Starlink’s growing global network.

Botswana’s decision to license Starlink comes just three months after President Mokgweetsi Masisi met with Ben MacWilliams, Director of Starlink’s Global Licensing and Activation, at a business summit in the United States in May 2024. During this meeting, MacWilliams expressed Starlink’s interest in obtaining a license to operate in Botswana—a proposal that President Masisi quickly approved. Following the President’s directive, the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) accelerated the licensing process, finalizing it within two weeks.

This swift turnaround marks a significant shift from previous legal restrictions when BOCRA had declared that importing, using, or selling Starlink kits or services was illegal, with violators facing legal consequences. The change in policy underscores the government’s recognition of the transformative potential that Starlink’s services can offer to Botswana’s connectivity landscape.

Botswana is known for having some of the highest data costs in Africa, a significant barrier to widespread internet access for its 2.63 million residents. By licensing Starlink, the country aims to address this issue, offering more affordable and reliable internet services, particularly in remote and underserved areas.

For residential users, Starlink’s service will be available at a cost of BWP 4,820 (USD 359) for the hardware, with a monthly subscription fee of BWP 688 (USD 51). This pricing structure provides a competitive alternative to traditional internet services, potentially lowering overall data costs and increasing internet penetration across the nation.

The introduction of Starlink in Botswana represents a crucial advancement in the country’s efforts to enhance digital connectivity and reduce the digital divide. The government’s proactive stance, coupled with Starlink’s cutting-edge satellite technology, is poised to significantly improve internet access in Botswana, fostering greater digital inclusion and driving socio-economic development.