Elon Musk's Starlink Gains Ground In Lesotho And Somalia

Lesotho grants Starlink 10-year license as part of efforts to modernize infrastructure and attract U.S. investment amid new tariffs on key exports.

Somalia approves national license for Starlink, aiming to boost access to education, healthcare, and finance in underserved, conflict-affected areas.

Starlink expands African footprint, now active in over six countries, with terminals for Lesotho and Somalia arriving in coming months.

Starlink, the satellite internet service operated by Elon Musks SpaceX, has received the green light to begin operations in Lesotho and Somaliaanother step in its growing presence across Africa. The move comes as countries across the continent ramp up efforts to improve digital connectivity and attract foreign investment.

In Lesotho, the mountain kingdom surrounded by South Africa, regulators have granted Starlink a 10-year license. The government sees this as part of a broader push to modernize its digital infrastructure and strengthen ties with international partners, especially the United States. The approval also comes at a delicate time, as Lesotho faces new U.S. tariffs on major exports such as diamonds and garments for brands like Levi Strauss Co.

Prime Minister Sam Matekane has committed to cutting red tape and encouraging American investment. The arrival of Starlink is being viewed not just as a tech development, but also as a strategic step in that direction. With its satellite-powered network, Starlink is expected to bring dependable internet to both urban centers and remote highland communities that have long struggled with poor connectivity.

Somalia, meanwhile, is preparing for a major leap forward in digital access. The countrys communications regulator has issued Starlink a national license, allowing it to operate across one of the least connected regions in the world.

Starlinks system, which relies on low-Earth orbit satellites, eliminates the need for expensive and often damaged ground infrastructuresomething Somalia has lacked due to decades of conflict and limited investment.