Côte d'Ivoire has opened its market to Starlink’s fixed satellite Internet services, a move that is part of the government’s strategy to expand digital coverage across the country, particularly in rural areas and underserved communities.

Starlink, the satellite Internet company operated by SpaceX, will provide high-speed connectivity through a network of low Earth orbit satellites. Ivorian authorities view the technology as a complement to existing terrestrial infrastructure, helping bring Internet access closer to populations in remote areas.

The initiative comes as Côte d'Ivoire seeks to reduce the digital divide and strengthen digital inclusion. The government is relying on satellite technologies to improve connectivity in key sectors such as education, healthcare, public administration and economic activities.

According to authorities, the expansion of these new connectivity solutions will also support the country’s digital transformation by improving access to online services and digital tools in areas where traditional network deployment remains more challenging.

The opening of the market to Starlink marks a new step in Côte d'Ivoire’s efforts to diversify connectivity solutions, as several African countries are turning to space technologies to accelerate access to high-speed Internet.