High-speed satellite internet from Starlink is now commercially available across Ivory Coast. SpaceX’s service officially launched on July 16, 2026, following the granting of a provisional 12-month license by the Regulatory Authority for Telecommunications/ICT (ARTCI) to Starlink Network CIV. Customers can now order their satellite terminals directly through starlink.com/cotedivoire.
This milestone was announced on June 11, 2026, by Djibril Ouattara, Minister of Digital Transition and Technological Innovation. The authorization permits fixed satellite internet services nationwide, utilizing Ka and V frequency bands to ensure reliable connectivity.
Tackling digital exclusion in rural areas
The Ivorian government is prioritizing underserved rural communities, schools, and isolated health centers, as outlined by the Ministry of Digital Transition. The initiative aims to reduce the digital divide in regions where traditional fixed and mobile networks remain unreliable or nonexistent.
This regulatory approval follows a decision by ARTCI’s Regulatory Council in September 2025. The 12-month provisional license allows authorities to assess service quality and Starlink’s adherence to local commitments before considering a long-term extension.
Ivory Coast joins Africa’s satellite internet revolution
Ivory Coast becomes the 27th African nation to adopt Starlink’s satellite constellation, marking a significant step in the continent’s rapid digital transformation. This expansion, accelerating since 2023, includes rollouts in Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda, and Mozambique.
Starlink’s African deployment addresses the growing demand for internet access in areas where terrestrial infrastructure is prohibitively expensive. The service promises high-speed connectivity and low latency, thanks to its low-Earth-orbit satellite network.
Context: Ivory Coast’s telecom landscape
The arrival of Starlink coincides with the simultaneous launch of 5G in Ivory Coast, highlighting the government’s push to modernize telecom infrastructure. While the country already hosts multiple mobile operators, rural zones remain critically under-connected.
With a population of 33.5 million and a land area of 322,000 km², Ivory Coast faces stark geographic disparities between the urbanized south and rural north. The country’s fixed internet penetration remains low, creating opportunities for satellite-based solutions like Starlink.
The ARTCI, established in 2012, oversees the telecom sector and ensures fair competition. Its decision to grant a provisional license reflects a balanced approach to integrating global players while safeguarding local market stability.
Regulatory oversight and future expectations
The 12-month trial period will evaluate Starlink’s compliance with local standards and its impact on the market. Minister Djibril Ouattara emphasized that license renewal will hinge on performance outcomes during this phase.
This cautious strategy mirrors practices in other African nations, where regulators often mandate pilot phases before full-scale deployment. The dual focus is ensuring service excellence and protecting domestic operators from disproportionate competition.
The coming months will determine whether Starlink delivers on its rural coverage promises and maintains accessible pricing for target users. License renewal will depend on tangible results in these areas.
