In a significant advancement for Somalia’s digital infrastructure, the National Communications Authority (NCA) has officially granted Starlink a license to operate within the country. This milestone paves the way for the satellite-based internet provider, a subsidiary of Elon Musk’s SpaceX, to deliver high-speed, low-latency internet services across Somalia, including its most remote and underserved regions.
The announcement was made during a formal ceremony in Mogadishu on Sunday, attended by representatives from Starlink, senior government officials, and key stakeholders in Somalia’s communications and technology sector.
Speaking at the event, Mustafa Yaasin Sheik, Director General of the NCA, hailed the move as a transformative moment in Somalia’s journey toward comprehensive digital inclusion.
“Starlink’s entry into Somalia represents a significant milestone in our efforts to bridge the digital divide in our country,” said Sheik. “This is about more than internet access—it’s about unlocking new opportunities for education, commerce, governance, and innovation.”
Minister of Communications and Technology, Mohamed Mo’allim, reiterated the government’s support for digital expansion and emphasized the importance of partnerships in achieving universal access.
“We welcome Starlink. This aligns with our vision to deliver affordable and accessible internet services to all Somalis,” he stated. “Our government is committed to creating an enabling environment for technological advancement that benefits every citizen.”
Starlink’s presence in Somalia is expected to dramatically improve internet connectivity, particularly in rural and conflict-affected areas where traditional infrastructure has long been unreliable or non-existent. By leveraging its constellation of low-earth orbit satellites, Starlink offers a unique solution capable of delivering high-speed broadband to locations beyond the reach of fiber or mobile networks.
This development is widely seen as a step forward in boosting Somalia’s digital economy, improving public service delivery, and empowering communities with access to information, education, and global markets. With this milestone, Somalia joins a growing list of countries across Africa embracing cutting-edge satellite technology to accelerate development and close the connectivity gap.