Under the accord, Vodacom will integrate Starlink’s satellite backhaul into its mobile network infrastructure, enabling coverage expansion in remote or rural regions where traditional terrestrial build-out is challenging.
In addition, Vodacom will be authorised to resell Starlink equipment and services to enterprise and small business customers across its African footprint.
Shameel Joosub, Vodacom Group CEO Shameel 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.”
Meanwhile, Starlink’s VP of operations, Chad Gibbs noted that Starlink is already serving users in 25 African countries and by working with Vodacom the service can reach “even more customers, transforming lives and communities across the continent.”
The deal aligns with Vodacom’s longer-term “Vision 2030” strategy, which seeks to expand its customer base and build a multi-layered network covering mobile, fibre and satellite.
While the announcement covers “across Africa”, it is not yet publicly confirmed whether all individual markets (including South Africa itself) will immediately benefit from the service rollout, pending regulatory approvals in each country.
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After a standout 2025 edition, we’re back with an even sharper focus on the intersection of data centres, energy, and ESG. As power demand rises and regulations evolve, there’s a growing urgency to rethink how infrastructure is powered, financed, and built for long-term impact.
