Starlink Commences Operations in Niger

Satellite internet provider Starlink has officially commenced operations in the Republic of Niger, marking a major step forward in bridging the nation’s significant digital divide.

With this launch, Niger becomes the 18th African country to adopt Starlink’s services, joining nations like Nigeria and Kenya.

Elon Musk’s Announcement

On March 13, Elon Musk, founder of SpaceX, celebrated the milestone on X (formerly Twitter). He shared a Starlink availability post, stating, “Starlink now available in Niger.”

Starlink now available in Niger https://t.co/cO7jDWzyld

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 13, 2025

A Lifeline for Niger’s Connectivity 

This development is crucial for Niger, where internet penetration remains one of the lowest in Africa.

According to the Electronic Communications Regulation and Mail Authority (ARCEP), only 32% of Nigeriens are online, with existing infrastructure covering a mere 30% of the country.

This leaves vast rural areas without connectivity.

The introduction of Starlink follows a pivotal November 2024 meeting between Niger’s ruling military junta and Musk.

During the meeting, the two sides finalised an agreement to extend Starlink’s coverage across the underserved regions of the country.

Promises of Enhanced Coverage

Speaking on state television, Niger’s communication and digital economy minister, Sidi Mohamed Raliou, highlighted the transformative potential of Starlink’s technology.

He noted that the network of low-Earth orbit satellites would provide high-speed internet access even to the most remote areas of Niger.

Raliou announced plans for Starlink to deliver broadband coverage to 80–100% of the country’s territory.

“Starlink’s network of low-Earth orbit satellites can provide internet access to remote locations or areas that normal communications infrastructure do not reach.

“Niger will benefit from this cutting-edge, high-speed technology at a very low cost,” Raliou explained during his appearance on Tele Sahel, though specific terms of the agreement remain undisclosed.

A Growing Presence in Africa

Starlink’s expansion in Niger follows a wave of launches across Africa, including Cape Verde, Chad, Botswana, Liberia, and Zimbabwe in late 2024.

In Mali, a temporary lift on restrictions for Starlink kits has further boosted access to satellite internet, though some concerns remain over their potential misuse.

Projected Costs for Nigerien Users

While pricing details for Niger have not been officially disclosed, experts anticipate a structure similar to that in other African countries.

Hardware is expected to cost $363, with shipping at $24 and a monthly subscription fee of $52.

Starlink’s arrival in Niger represents a monumental shift for the nation’s connectivity landscape, promising to unlock unprecedented opportunities for digital access and innovation.