Eutelsat has partnered with Airtel Gabon to deliver OneWeb low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite connectivity to passenger trains in Gabon, enabling onboard Wi-Fi services. The solution has already been successfully tested and is being rolled out as part of a national initiative led by Gabon’s Ministry of Digital Economy, Digitalization and Innovation and the Ministry of Transport, Merchant Marine and Logistics, in collaboration with the Transgabon Railway Operating Company (SETRAG).
Airtel Gabon Managing Director Thomas Herbert Gutjahr said the deployment supports Gabon’s push to integrate digital services into public transportation, modernize the railway experience, and improve passenger comfort. He added that LEO connectivity enables reliable broadband access along long-distance rail routes that are beyond the reach of terrestrial networks.
According to Eutelsat, the project also expands the footprint of its OneWeb LEO services across Africa. Philippe Baudrier, Eutelsat’s Vice President for Africa, said the initiative highlights the company’s focus on working with governments and telecom operators to strengthen digital infrastructure in key sectors, including transport, while reinforcing its partnership with Airtel.
Gabon is among the latest African markets to adopt satellite-enabled rail connectivity as part of broader digital transformation efforts aimed at improving public services and passenger experience.
