As SpaceX’s Starlink works towards launching its satellite internet services in Bangladesh, the company has halted new connections in several African countries due to overwhelming demand. Billionaire Elon Musk shared this update via his social media handle on X, formerly known as Twitter.
In response to a customer post, Musk acknowledged that Starlink has suspended new registrations in densely populated urban areas across Africa because its network capacity has reached its limits. However, he assured users that efforts are underway to enhance capacity in urban areas as quickly as possible. He added that rural areas still have sufficient capacity to accommodate new connections.
Demand for Starlink is particularly high in African cities where traditional internet infrastructure is lacking or unreliable. Since its launch in Nigeria in January 2023—following pre-booking availability in May 2022—the service has gained over 23,000 subscribers in just one year.
In Kenya, Starlink was ranked the 10th largest internet service provider in June 2023 by the country’s telecom regulator, with approximately 8,000 subscribers and a 0.5% market share. However, the company faces regulatory challenges elsewhere, including Brazil, where its operations on X have led to sanctions. Violating court orders, Starlink risks having its license revoked by Brazilian telecom authority Anatel.
Meanwhile, in Bangladesh, efforts to introduce Starlink’s satellite-based broadband internet are progressing to the second phase. As part of this initiative, a Starlink receiver is being displayed at the ongoing City IT Mega Fair at BCS Computer City in Agargaon, Dhaka. Despite this exhibit at the Ryans Computer showroom, Starlink services and devices are not yet available for purchase or use in Bangladesh. For now, curious visitors must settle for a preview of the receiver, fueling anticipation for the service’s official launch.
