More satellite services to descend on Africa

More satellite services are set to enter Africa, according to a recent GSM Association (GSMA) webinar. The discussion, which examined the global and African satellite services landscape, highlighted several key points. One of the main challenges facing satellite connectivity providers in South Africa is the regulatory hurdles they must overcome, such as licensing requirements.

Several countries in Africa, including South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, are actively considering or testing additional satellite connectivity. The GSMA Intelligence Satellite and NTN Tracker report for the third quarter of 2026 noted growing commercial satellite activity and direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity, which allows compatible mobile devices to connect through satellites.

Companies such as Amazon Leo, Avanti Communications, and Eutelsat OneWeb are expanding services for businesses, mobile backhaul, and underserved areas. Meanwhile, Airtel Africa and Starlink are already offering Starlink Mobile connectivity in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and pursuing partnerships in other African countries to extend coverage beyond terrestrial networks.

GSMA head of research and consulting Tim Hatt emphasized that the deployment of satellite services will continue across Africa, subject to meeting licensing and regulatory requirements. The African market presents a ripe opportunity for more global satellite players to establish a presence, particularly in countries where additional satellite connectivity is planned or still in testing.

Despite the potential growth, the report does not specify launch dates for these markets. GSMA head of spectrum, Luciana Camargos, stated that Starlink's entry into South Africa depends on the company's compliance with local licensing requirements. The company has reaffirmed its commitment to providing high-speed internet to South Africa and meeting all legally compliant standards.