Starlink has officially launched services in South Sudan with the approval of the National Communications Authority (NCA), which aims to bring affordable internet to the country.
In late June, Eye Radio reported that Starlink and the NCA signed an agreement granting Starlink a provisional license to operate in South Sudan.
The NCA recently approved Starlink’s tariff proposals, which have been publicly released. Customers must register and pay in South Sudanese pounds, equivalent to Starlink’s US dollar prices, ensuring transparency and affordability.
The NCA announced that Starlink will soon appoint local distributors for its services and equipment. Until then, importing Starlink kits through unauthorized distributors remains illegal under the National Communication Act of 2012.
South Sudan has one of the world’s lowest connectivity rates, with only 1.36 million internet users (12.1% penetration) as of January 2024, per Kepios. GSMA Intelligence reports 3.97 million mobile connections (35.5% penetration) at the start of the year, a 7.7% increase from the previous year, although actual penetration may be lower due to multiple SIM ownership.
