Starlink Now Operational in Cape Verde
Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite internet service, has officially launched in Cape Verde, marking it as the latest African country to approve and adopt the low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite-based connectivity solution. This development brings the total number of countries where Starlink is operational to 117. Elon Musk announced the milestone on the microblogging platform X, emphasising its role in advancing global digital connectivity.
In October, Cape Verde’s regulatory authority, Agência Reguladora Multissectorial da Economia (ARME), announced the approval of Starlink Cape Verde, the local entity representing the service. Furthermore, ARME stated that Starlink was granted authorisation to provide electronic communications services nationwide, expanding access to high-speed satellite internet. This move complements existing terrestrial networks, benefiting remote and underserved areas with limited connectivity.
ARME highlighted that the decision aligns with its commitment to fostering competition in the communications sector, ultimately enhancing service quality for Cape Verde residents. In addition, the service’s introduction will help the country bridge digital gaps and support economic growth through improved internet infrastructure.
Starlink’s hardware in Cape Verde costs CVE 39,000 (approximately USD 373), with the Mini dish available for CVE 20,000 (USD 191). Subscription plans include:
- Residential Plan: CVE 5,000/month (USD 48/month), offering standard connectivity.
- Residential Lite Plan: CVE 3,500/month (USD 34/month), providing a more affordable option with deprioritised unlimited data, potentially experiencing slower speeds during peak hours.
Introducing these tiered options makes satellite internet more accessible to smaller households and users with lower data demands. Thus, with Starlink’s deployment, Cape Verde is taking a significant step forward in advancing its digital inclusion efforts and strengthening its position in Africa’s evolving connectivity landscape.