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Starlink launches in Seychelles to expand internet access
🇵🇾 Paraguay /Technology

Starlink launches in Seychelles to expand internet access

From ABC Color · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified New plan
  • Starlink, Elon Musk's satellite internet service, has officially launched in Seychelles, aiming to improve connectivity.
  • The service was authorized under the national regulatory framework, with the SCRA ensuring compliance with laws and consumer protection.
  • Seychelles becomes the 28th African country to gain access to Starlink, which is expected to benefit remote islands and address existing connectivity issues.

Starlink, the satellite internet service from Elon Musk's company, has begun operations in Seychelles, with the stated goal of expanding connectivity options for homes and businesses across the African archipelago. The preliminary launch event took place at the State House in Victoria, attended by Seychelles' Vice President Sébastien Pillay and representatives from the Seychelles Communications Regulatory Authority (SCRA).

an important step in the digital transformation of the country

— Sébastien PillayDescribing the significance of Starlink's launch in Seychelles.

Vice President Pillay hailed Starlink's arrival as a significant step in the nation's digital transformation, emphasizing the government's commitment to ensuring reliable, affordable, and high-quality internet access for all Seychellois citizens. He noted that adopting new technologies is crucial for fostering economic growth, enhancing public services, and creating opportunities for businesses, students, and communities.

The SCRA confirmed that Starlink received authorization to operate within the existing national regulatory framework. The authority's role will be to oversee compliance with local laws, technical standards, and consumer protection requirements. It was clarified that Starlink's service in Seychelles is limited to internet access and does not include other telecommunications services, such as mobile telephony.

guarantee reliable, affordable and high-quality internet access for all Seychellois.

— Sébastien PillayStating the government's internet access goals.

Starlink operates via satellites in orbit, requiring users to install a receiver with a clear view of the sky, as obstructions like trees or buildings can impact service quality. Seychelles is now the 28th country in Africa to have Starlink operational, following its launch on July 18. The government anticipates that the service will be particularly beneficial for improving connectivity in remote islands where traditional infrastructure deployment is challenging, addressing long-standing complaints about slow speeds, insufficient coverage, and service interruptions.

ensure compliance with laws, technical standards and consumer protection requirements.

— Seychelles Communications Regulatory Authority (SCRA)Explaining the SCRA's role in regulating Starlink's operations.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ABC Color in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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