LEO satellite connectivity within Africa's reach

Low earth orbit (LEO) satellite connectivity is now widely available across the globe, which means that Africa is one step closer to universal connectivity. This form of internet service provides reliable connectivity to remote users across the continent. While geostationary satellite connectivity has been available for many years, LEO connectivity is a relatively new technology that is likely to have a bigger impact on the internet and business connectivity.

LEO satellite connectivity will be tested in South Africa towards the end of 2023. When it becomes more readily available, this space-based connectivity service could be highly useful for enterprises and businesses, especially mines, in remote regions of the country and continent. A satellite-based broadband network is designed to provide internet access to areas with limited or no connectivity, like remote towns and rural villages.

This makes it an attractive option and can have a positive impact on the country's internet landscape, as it offers an alternative to terrestrial internet services. Without satellite connectivity, the internet has largely been out of reach for many users in remote areas of South Africa and the continent.

LEO connectivity could be the next frontier. It offers a terrestrial-grade experience for voice, video and data transmission. Satellite connectivity is reliable, secure and scalable, but is most beneficial to companies with remote branches where a fibre network is not yet available.

Satellite telecommunications in Africa

Satellite telecommunications is already widely used across Africa. In many remote or underdeveloped areas, satellite technology is often the only way to connect to the internet and other communication networks. In recent years, Africa has seen significant growth in the deployment of LEO satellite technology for a range of applications, including internet connectivity, telemedicine, education, agriculture, and disaster management.

Several private companies and public initiatives are working to expand LEO satellite coverage across the continent. However, despite progress, there are still some challenges to overcome, such as high costs, limited access to reliable electricity and a lack of regulatory frameworks that support the deployment of satellite infrastructure.

Despite this, with continued investment and innovation, LEO satellite connectivity has the potential to transform connectivity in Africa and support economic growth and development, especially for those living in rural areas.

LEO satellite connectivity in Africa still has hurdles to overcome

A lack of regulatory processes and infrastructure, coupled with a high cost, are a few of the challenges that the continent faces at the moment. The cost of satellite technology can be expensive, making it difficult for many countries and communities to afford it – launching satellites and building ground stations adds to this cost.

Africa's vast size and diverse terrain can also make it difficult to establish reliable connections between ground stations and satellite networks. In addition, in many parts of Africa, reliable electricity is in short supply, which can make it challenging to power satellite equipment and ground stations.

LEO technology is not yet widely available to businesses and individuals, but with continued investment and innovation, it has the potential to increase access to technology and build local capacity. All of these hurdles will likely be overcome in the near future as advancements in research, technology and practical applications increase.

Satellite connectivity in the future

Satellite connectivity can certainly be seen as a future solution in Africa. It has the potential to change lives by providing reliable internet access in rural areas that previously had no connectivity at all. Mines, banks (and their ATMs), as well as clinics and NGO outlets stand to benefit from LEO satellite technology.

While satellite internet can provide connectivity in remote or underdeveloped areas, its limitations make it less suitable for many enterprise applications for now. This may change in a few years' time.

If your business is looking for true seamless connectivity, including fibre connectivity, get in touch with SEACOM Business. For more information or to get a quote for our connectivity solutions, email us at marketing@seacom.com or leave us a message.

SEACOM operates Africa’s most extensive network of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure, including multiple subsea cables and secure internet connections tracing both sides of the continent. This is partnered with broad terrestrial fibre networks in Southern and East Africa, extending services to these regions.

Today, SEACOM provides holistic ICT solutions covering connectivity, cyber security, cloud, smart networking and communication products that provide African businesses with the necessary building blocks to deliver world-class solutions to their clients. We are privately owned and operated, making us agile and adaptable to the needs of our customers.

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