Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Bangladeshi firms have partnered with Starlink to establish earth stations across the country, aiming to provide reliable internet, especially in remote areas. The collaboration involves space allocation, construction support, and infrastructure maintenance, with a goal to implement the model within the next 90 days to overcome connectivity challenges.
Starlink has begun discussions with Moroccan authorities to deploy its satellites over the Sahara. Negotiations, which began in the summer of 2024, were further advanced during the Qatar-Africa Business Forum in November 2024. The deployment depends on approval from Morocco’s National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ANRT).
The registration process for Starlink’s satellite internet service has begun in Pakistan, following discussions between the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and Starlink at the Mobile World Congress 2025. The partnership aims to improve broadband access in underserved areas and bridge the digital divide, enhancing Pakistan’s digital infrastructure.
BSCL has requested the BTRC to mandate satellite internet providers, including Starlink, to route bandwidth through its ground station, aiming for resource utilization and revenue growth. However, BTRC is unlikely to enforce this for NGSO operators like Starlink, fearing it could hinder their entry into Bangladesh’s market.
Elon Musk expressed excitement about launching Starlink in Bangladesh following a meeting with Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Prof. Muhammad Yunus. The discussions focused on how Starlink could improve connectivity for youth, rural areas, and underserved communities. Musk also accepted an invitation to visit Bangladesh for the potential launch.
Pakistan is set to approve Starlink and other tech companies to operate within six months. The IT Ministry aims to expedite digital services, including broadband improvements and IT park establishment. The committee also urged for grants to improve broadband services in remote areas and achieve national IT export targets.
Veon is negotiating with SpaceX to bring Starlink satellite services to Bangladesh, aiming to expand satellite internet access across several emerging markets. The partnership could provide essential connectivity during crises and offer telecom access to underserved regions.
Starlink has applied to establish ground stations in Pakistan to provide high-speed internet through its LEO satellite network. The company, registered under “Starlink Internet Services (Private) Limited,” is awaiting regulatory approval to expand broadband services in underserved areas, potentially revolutionizing internet access in the country.
Starlink usage in Iran has surpassed 100,000 users, with significant growth driven by demand for unrestricted internet access amid government censorship. Despite its high costs, Starlink has become essential for bypassing internet restrictions, especially after the 2022 protests. The service highlights the ongoing struggle for digital freedom in Iran.
Pakistan’s Ministry of IT is finalizing the hiring of a consultant to develop regulations for Starlink internet access. The meeting, chaired by Shaza Fatima Khawaja, focused on expediting the regulatory process for Low Earth Orbit satellites, aiming to enhance connectivity and align Pakistan’s policies with global standards.