MTN Zambia has announced that it has been appointed an authorised reseller of Starlink, the world’s most cutting-edge satellite internet service. Starlink provides high-speed, low-latency broadband connectivity to even the most remote regions of Zambia.
Through this strategic partnership, MTN Zambia will provide Starlink Business packages, guaranteeing nationwide internet access in underserved, rural, and peri-urban areas.
This programme complements the Zambian government’s digital transformation agenda and advances MTN Zambia’s mission to provide everyone with the advantages of a contemporary, connected life.
Abbad Reda, CEO of MTN Zambia, emphasised, “The partnership with Starlink demonstrates our unwavering commitment to bridging the digital divide in Zambia. By bringing reliable, high-speed internet to every corner of the country, we are empowering communities, businesses, and institutions to thrive in a connected world.”
Customers can buy and activate Starlink kits directly through MTN Zambia’s carefully chosen retail locations and committed account managers.
In order to ensure a seamless and dependable experience for businesses, non-governmental organisations, and governmental institutions, MTN Zambia will additionally offer expert installation services, local support, and committed customer service.
This partnership reaffirms MTN Zambia’s leadership in innovation and dedication to providing inclusive connectivity for all Zambians.
About MTN Zambia
MTN Zambia is a subsidiary of the MTN Group, a multinational telecommunications corporation that operates in 22 Middle Eastern and African nations. After purchasing Telecel in 2005, it began operations in Zambia.
It began as an exclusive GSM network that offered Short Message System (SMS) and voice services. The portfolio has since expanded to include local and international phone calls, data, fixed and wireless internet, money transfers, and other value-added services.
Offering communications solutions in all ten Zambian provinces, the company holds the largest market share, making it the industry leader in Zambia. MTN Zambia uses 4G, 3G, Edge, and 2G networks.
MTN is Zambia’s most inventive and rapidly expanding network. It is well-known for its high-quality network and dynamic tariff billing system.
About Starlink satellite internet
SpaceX developed the Starlink satellite internet service, which uses cutting-edge technologies to provide high-speed, low-latency internet connectivity.
Starlink satellites are revolutionising the internet connectivity landscape. Their constellation of thousands of satellites orbits the Earth at a height of about 550 kilometres, giving consumers worldwide fast and reliable internet access.
Low Earth Orbit, a primary characteristic of Starlink, allows its satellites to orbit the Earth at a significantly lower height than conventional satellites. This feature lowers latency and speeds up the internet.
It can reach distant areas without Wi-Fi or terrestrial cable infrastructure, and it has faster connection speeds than rivals.
Starlink’s expansion in Africa
With only 40 per cent of the continent’s 1.3 billion inhabitants having internet access—the lowest percentage in the world—Starlink’s growth in Africa is a part of a larger movement to increase connectivity.
However, the programme has encountered challenges in some countries. For instance, Starlink is not available in South Africa, the continent’s biggest and most developed economy, due to its local ownership law.
According to South Africa’s Electronic Communications Act (ECA), historically under-represented communities must own at least 30 per cent of any prospective licensee in the country’s postal, broadcasting, or telecommunications industries. This circumstance has complicated Starlink’s planned launch.
Starlink has established its presence in 24 African countries, with DR Congo being its latest addition in May, followed by Guinea-Bissau, Somalia and Lesotho in April 2025.
Starlink has established itself in other African countries, including Nigeria, Burundi, Botswana, Ghana, Benin, Rwanda, Malawi, Mozambique, and Zambia.
Others are Madagascar, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Eswatini, Chad, Congo, Liberia, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Tanzania, and Niger.