The Congolese Post and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (ARPTC) has officially granted a telecommunications network and services license to Starlink.
This authorization could represent a significant step forward in the strategy to reduce the digital divide in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a country where access to the internet remains largely limited.
This decision marks a major shift from the position adopted in March 2024. At that time, the ARPTC stated that Starlink did not have "any operating title" and considered the marketing of its equipment and use of its network as illegal.
Since then, relations between the Congolese authorities and the satellite operator have evolved.
With over 6,000 satellites in orbit, Starlink now operates the largest satellite constellation in the world, providing high-speed, low-latency internet in several countries, including neighboring Burundi.
According to the ARPTC, in the DRC, the internet penetration rate remains low, standing at 32.3%.
