Vodacom partners with Elon Musk’s Starlink

The network provider aims to expand high-speed internet access across Africa

Katlego Sekhu

"Is SA's government doing Elon’s bidding? Listeners weigh in — Image: X/@elonmusk

Vodacom has announced a landmark partnership with Starlink.
The agreement will integrate Starlink’s satellite backhaul into Vodacom’s mobile network.
The collaboration aims to bridge Africa’s digital divide, connecting remote schools, health centres, and small businesses while unlocking new opportunities for economic growth.

Vodacom Group has announced a landmark partnership with Starlink, the world’s largest satellite broadband provider, to extend high-speed, low-latency internet access to millions of businesses and rural communities across Africa.

Through this agreement, Vodacom will integrate Starlink’s satellite backhaul technology into its mobile network to enhance performance and accelerate coverage expansion in remote regions.

The partnership will strengthen Vodacom’s rural infrastructure, providing reliable internet access for schools, health centres, and small businesses.

Vodacom will also be authorised to resell Starlink equipment and services to enterprise and small business customers, with plans to tailor its offerings to suit the diverse needs and affordability levels of African markets.

Vodacom Group CEO Shameel Joosub said the partnership was a significant milestone in the company’s mission to connect every African to the internet.

“We are delighted to collaborate with Starlink, a move that accelerates our mission to connect every African to the internet,” Joosub said. “Low Earth orbit satellite technology will help bridge the digital divide where traditional infrastructure is not feasible, and this partnership will unlock new possibilities for the unconnected.”

Chad Gibbs, Vice President of Starlink Operations at SpaceX, said the agreement would expand the company’s existing reach across the continent.

“Starlink is already serving people, businesses, and organisations in 25 African countries,” Gibbs said. “By collaborating with Vodacom, Starlink can deliver reliable, high-speed connectivity to even more customers, transforming lives and communities across Africa.”