Elon Musk’s Starlink Registers in Pakistan: Satellite Internet and 2Africa Cable to Boost Connectivity
- Abeera Marium Siddiqui
- January 7, 2025
- 6:35 pm
- 34
- Technology
Elon Musk’s Starlink, a satellite internet leader, takes a bold step to transform Pakistan’s digital infrastructure. The company finalized its registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), which paves the way for enhanced connectivity in the country.
Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, confirmed the news, stating,
The Space Board Authority is reviewing various technical aspects, and updates have been communicated to Starlink.
The move aligns with the government’s broader vision of opening low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite services to international providers.
A New Dawn for Internet Services in Pakistan
Pakistan faces ongoing challenges in its internet infrastructure. According to Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index, the country ranks 100th out of 111 nations in mobile internet speeds and 141st out of 158 for broadband. Average mobile download speeds hover around 20.61 Mbps, while broadband speeds remain at 15.60 Mbps. These limitations affect millions, causing frustrations and lost opportunities.
However, the entry of Starlink marks a crucial turning point. The government collaborates with international consultants to draft a robust regulatory framework. This framework ensures that LEO satellites operate seamlessly and prevent interference with local frequencies. Consequently, the initiative promises better internet experiences for users across the country.
The Role of the 2Africa Submarine Cable System
In addition to Starlink’s advancements, Pakistan prepares for the transformative impact of the 2Africa Submarine Cable System. This ambitious project spans 45,000 kilometers, connecting 46 locations across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Global tech giants like Meta and Vodafone lead this initiative, utilizing state-of-the-art SDM1 technology with a massive capacity of 180 terabits per second (Tbps).
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and Transworld Associates oversee the local implementation of this project. Installation began in December 2024 at Hawksbay, Karachi, and the next phase, involving deep-sea cable laying, is set to commence in April 2025. By the final quarter of 2025, the cable system will supply Pakistan with 24 terabytes of bandwidth, tripling its current capacity of 8 terabytes from existing cables.
This upgrade will significantly enhance the performance of widely-used platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram, creating a smoother online experience for users. Moreover, it addresses longstanding connectivity issues that have frustrated millions of Pakistanis.
Addressing Pakistan’s Digital Divide
The arrival of Starlink and the 2Africa cable comes at a critical juncture. Years of sluggish internet speeds and infrastructure failures have hindered Pakistan’s IT sector, causing financial losses and stalling progress. However, these cutting-edge initiatives promise to change the narrative.
Starlink’s satellite internet service offers a solution to rural and urban connectivity challenges, ensuring faster speeds and stable access. Meanwhile, the 2Africa cable reinforces these efforts by supporting high-bandwidth applications and reducing disruptions.
A Digital Revolution
As Pakistan finalizes its regulatory framework, Elon Musk’s Starlink and the 2Africa cable system are poised to revolutionize the nation’s internet services. These initiatives represent a significant step toward bridging the digital divide, enabling faster, more reliable, and affordable connectivity for millions.
As these advancements take shape, Pakistan embraces an era of opportunity powered by technology. Additionally, these advancements enhance connectivity as well as position the nation for economic growth in the global digital economy. With each milestone, Pakistan moves closer to a brighter, more connected future.
