On March 13, 2025, exciting news made headlines in Chad: the launch of the Starlink satellite internet service, developed by SpaceX. This initiative promises to transform the country’s digital landscape, bringing high-speed internet access to regions that were previously deprived of it.
A Challenging Digital Context
Chad, a Central African country, faces numerous challenges when it comes to its digital infrastructure. According to data from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), only 11% of the Chadian population had internet access in 2023. This figure is well below the global average, which stood at around 60% that same year. Rural areas, in particular, suffer from a lack of access, which limits economic and educational opportunities.
The Arrival of Starlink in Chad
The launch of Starlink in Chad has been enthusiastically received. The Chadian government, in collaboration with SpaceX, announced that the service would be available nationwide by the end of 2025. Initial tests have shown download speeds of up to 150 Mbps, a significant leap from current speeds, which are often less than 1 Mbps in rural areas.
Key Figures
Internet Access: With the arrival of Starlink, it is estimated that internet access in Chad could increase from 11% to 40% by 2026, reaching millions of people who previously lacked reliable internet services.
Service Cost: The cost of a monthly Starlink subscription is estimated at approximately USD 50, which remains competitive compared to other internet service providers in the country. Additionally, the initial hardware cost to connect to the service is approximately USD 250.
Economic Impact: According to a World Bank study, improving internet access could increase Chad’s GDP by 2 to 3% annually, stimulating innovation and facilitating access to international markets.
Education and Health: Internet access is crucial for education and health. With Starlink, schools and healthcare facilities will be able to access online resources, training, and remote consultations, thus improving the quality of services offered.
Challenges to Overcome
Despite these promising prospects, several challenges remain. One of the main obstacles is the initial cost of the equipment, which can be prohibitive for many families. Furthermore, awareness and training in the use of digital technologies will be essential to ensure that people can fully benefit from this service.
Encouraging Businesses to Invest in the Telecommunications Sector
The arrival of Starlink in Chad could also encourage other companies to invest in the telecommunications sector. Competition could lead to lower prices and improved services, which would benefit consumers.
Furthermore, the Chadian government has expressed its commitment to further developing the country’s digital infrastructure. Initiatives to train young people in digital skills and promote digital entrepreneurship are already underway.
Conclusion
The launch of Starlink in Chad represents a major step towards the country’s digital transformation. With millions of people potentially connected to high-speed internet, the economic, educational, and social opportunities are immense. Although challenges remain, the enthusiasm and commitment of local and international stakeholders point to a promising future for Chad in the digital age.
In short, the arrival of Starlink could well be the catalyst Chad needs to propel itself toward a more inclusive and dynamic digital future. Starlink thus becomes the first satellite operator officially authorized to operate in Chad. This is a strategic step for a country where internet access remains expensive and inefficient, hampering its economic and social development.
