24 November 2023

The authorities of the East African Community plan to establish a common satellite to ensure internet provision to the entire sub-region.

A regionally owned communications satellite will provide high-quality, reliable broadband internet services and broadcasting capabilities at a cost of $300 million.

Internet connection needs in Africa are constantly growing in the era of digital transformation. However, according to DataReportal, the internet penetration rate in EastAfrica was 23.1% as of January 2023. The sub-region lags behind other parts of the continent.