The Ivorian government has granted authorization to Starlink Network CIV to provide fixed satellite internet services across the national territory starting in July 2026, Minister of Digital Transition and Technological Innovation Djibril Ouattara announced on Thursday, June 11, 2026, in Abidjan-Plateau.

He was speaking during Gouv'Talk, the online discussion platform with members of the Government of Côte d’Ivoire organized by the Government Information and Communication Center (CICG).

"Starlink has obtained a license that will allow it to provide high-speed fixed internet services via satellite. As a result, remote rural areas, schools, and health centers that previously lacked internet access will be able to connect," he said.

According to the minister, the authorization is valid for a period of twelve months.

"Based on the quality of internet services provided, we will finalize the specifications and requirements. Starlink has significant ambitions for Côte d’Ivoire," he added.

He further announced that the government will soon work to improve access to smartphones in rural areas, enabling more people to connect to high-speed internet at affordable costs.

In the same vein, Djibril Ouattara revealed that the rollout of 5G services will begin next July, with all cities of more than 25,000 inhabitants gradually receiving coverage. To support this initiative, he noted that since January, his ministry has been working to improve operating conditions for telecommunications providers, all of which have already upgraded their networks.

While disclosing that Côte d’Ivoire’s actual internet coverage rate stands at 95%, including fiber-optic networks, fixed broadband connections, and 2G, 3G, and 4G services, he also stated that within the next four years, all localities with more than 800 inhabitants will be covered by GSM mobile services.