Maseru, Aug. 18 — Vodacom Lesotho in partnership with Starlink has launched a satellite broadband solution aimed at improving internet connectivity and bridging the digital divide in Lesotho.
The solution was launched at an event held in Maseru on Tuesday, with government and Vodacom Group officials highlighting the potential of satellite technology to expand reliable connectivity particularly in underserved and hard-to-reach areas.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Information, Communication, Science, Technology and Innovation Ms. Nthati Moorosi stated that the launch is an indication that Lesotho is making progress in the right direction towards digitisation and addressing gaps in network connectivity.
She indicated that the Starlink satellite broadband solution is going to help close the country’s digital connectivity gap, particularly in remote and mountainous areas where conventional infrastructure such as fibre, telecommunications towers and microwave links can be costly and difficult to deploy.
She delineated that reliable connectivity has become essential to national development as it enables businesses to access markets, students to access learning opportunities, health facilities to access expertise, government to deliver services and entrepreneurs to innovate.
Ms Moorosi described the initiative as more than a commercial milestone, saying it contributes to Lesotho’s goal of building a connected, resilient, productive and inclusive digital society where geography does not limit opportunities.
She stated that improved connectivity would also support the country’s digital transformation agenda by creating opportunities for communities and businesses that have traditionally been disadvantaged by their geographical location.
Meanwhile, Vodacom Lesotho Chief Executive Officer Mr. Mohale Ralebitso noted that the partnership marked an important development in the company’s efforts to expand connectivity and provide customers with reliable broadband solutions.
He said that the initiative is expected to provide customers with an alternative connectivity solution particularly in areas where traditional network infrastructure remains challenging to deploy.
Speaking on behalf of Vodacom Group, Mr Navindran Naidoo said that Starlink had been incorporated into the initiative because of its experience in providing satellite connectivity in different parts of the world.
He indicated that the partnership would help expand access to broadband connectivity and provide customers with additional options for accessing the internet.
The satellite broadband packages tailored for households and enterprises range from 100 gigabytes at M805 per month on a 36-month contract to three terabytes at M11,725 per month.
The launch comes as Lesotho continues to pursue digital transformation and wider access to information and communication technologies as part of efforts to promote inclusive socio-economic development.
Ends/NT
