Starlink Set to Launch Operations in Ghana by End of August 2024
Starlink is gearing up to launch its services in Ghana by the end of August 2024. This exciting news follows the successful completion of all necessary administrative and licensing procedures with the National Communications Authority (NCA). The service will be managed locally by Space X Starlink GH LTD.
This announcement marks a significant step forward in Ghana’s efforts to improve its digital infrastructure, especially in remote and underserved areas where traditional broadband services have struggled to reach. Starlink’s low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites are poised to deliver high-speed internet access across the country, bridging the digital divide and supporting vital sectors like education, healthcare, and business.
As Starlink prepares to enter the Ghanaian market, there is keen interest in its pricing model, particularly compared to existing data costs. Currently, internet data prices in Ghana vary widely, with mobile data packages from providers like MTN and Telecel costing between GHS 3 to GHS 15 per gigabyte, depending on the package and usage.
In contrast, Starlink’s pricing in other markets has typically been higher, reflecting the advanced technology and infrastructure required to deliver satellite-based internet. For instance, in the United States, Starlink charges approximately $110 per month for unlimited data, along with an upfront equipment cost of around $599. If similar pricing is adopted in Ghana, Starlink could be positioned as a premium service, particularly appealing to users in areas with limited access to reliable broadband. The affordability and value of Starlink’s offerings will likely be a crucial factor in its adoption across different demographics in the country.
The NCA, the regulatory body responsible for overseeing electronic communications in Ghana, played a key role in facilitating Starlink’s entry into the Ghanaian market. Established by Act 524 in December 1996 and later revised under the National Communications Authority Act, 2008 (Act 769), the NCA ensures that communication services in Ghana adhere to the highest standards of efficiency and competitiveness.
With this latest approval, the NCA continues to fulfill its mandate of fostering a connected and digitally inclusive Ghana. The regulatory body had previously deemed the sale and operation of Starlink services illegal in December 2023 due to the lack of necessary licensing and equipment type approval. However, with these issues now resolved, Starlink is cleared to begin offering its services.
The launch of Starlink’s services is expected to transform internet access in Ghana, particularly in regions that have long been overlooked by traditional broadband providers. By providing reliable, high-speed internet access via satellite, Starlink will empower communities, businesses, and individuals to participate more fully in the digital economy. This move aligns with the government’s broader agenda of digital transformation, aiming to position Ghana as a leader in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector within the West African sub region.
