Eswatini Commissions Starlink Satellite Gateway to Expand National Connectivity
The Government of Eswatini has officially commissioned a new Satellite Gateway under the Starlink initiative, marking a significant step towards expanding nationwide internet connectivity through low Earth orbit satellite technology.
The project was inaugurated by His Majesty King Mswati III, represented by HRH Prince Sicalo, in a ceremony highlighting the country’s commitment to bridging digital gaps. The Satellite Gateway is expected to deliver faster and more reliable internet services, particularly in remote and underserved areas where traditional infrastructure has been difficult to deploy.
This milestone builds upon Starlink’s earlier market entry into the country, with regulatory approval granted in January 2023 for a five-year term and official service launch following in December 2025.
Addressing the Digital Divide
According to DataReportal, whilst a total of 1.67 million cellular mobile connections were active in Eswatini in early 2025, equivalent to 134% of the total population, some of these connections may only include services such as voice and SMS without internet access. There were 720,000 individuals using the internet at the start of 2025, representing an online penetration rate of 57.6%.
These figures indicate that whilst mobile connectivity is widespread, significant gaps in internet access remain, particularly in rural and remote regions where deploying terrestrial infrastructure remains challenging and economically unviable.
Enabling Digital Services and Economic Growth
The Government emphasised that the new gateway will enable broader access to digital services, including e-learning, telemedicine, digital entrepreneurship, and tourism platforms. By extending connectivity to schools, clinics, and businesses in remote areas, the initiative aims to support inclusive economic growth and social development.
The satellite-based approach bypasses the need for extensive terrestrial infrastructure, allowing rapid deployment of high-speed internet services to previously underserved communities and enabling immediate access to digital resources and opportunities.
Foundation for Technological Advancement
Looking ahead, officials described the project as part of a longer-term vision to position Eswatini at the forefront of emerging technologies. The adoption of satellite connectivity is viewed as a foundation for future innovations, including space-based data infrastructure and advanced AI systems, as the country seeks to build a more connected and digitally empowered economy.
The commissioning of the Satellite Gateway represents Eswatini’s strategic commitment to leveraging space technology to enable national development, ensuring that geographic location no longer determines access to digital services and economic opportunities.