(Ecofin Agency) - Once hailed in the early 2000s as the ideal solution to Africa's internet access challenges, fiber optic networks have struggled to expand steadily. However, after significant advancements in satellite technology over the past 30 years, satellite connectivity is now experiencing a resurgence of interest.

As Sub-Saharan Africa accelerates its digital transformation to boost development, satellite technology is emerging as a promising solution the continent must tap into. The most effective approach could combine telecom uses for wider internet coverage and Earth observation tools for the vital geographic data needed for economic and social planning.

The African Telecommunications Union (ATU) says satellite connectivity offers a viable alternative to traditional terrestrial networks, especially in rural and isolated areas where building infrastructure is too costly or complicated. Despite urbanization, 60% of Sub-Saharan Africans still live in rural areas. In Côte d'Ivoire, 28% of the population lacks access to high-speed mobile coverage, affecting over 7 million people. Similarly, about 80.6% of Ethiopia’s population was offline at the start of 2024, leaving 103.3 million people without internet, according to the ATU. Thanks to technological advances and economies of scale, satellite communications are becoming more accessible. This technology can provide full coverage with minimal ground infrastructure, making it an essential tool to connect marginalized populations. Coupled with Earth monitoring satellite technology, it has the potential to positively impact Africa’s GDP and help meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

By combining satellite connectivity and Earth observation, governments could provide millions of small-scale farmers with real-time data on weather conditions, soil health, and crop status key information that could boost agricultural production and improve living conditions. Satellite connectivity could play a crucial role in enhancing agricultural productivity and food security across Africa.

In Sub-Saharan Africa, which accounts for 13% of the world’s population but only 2% of its doctors, satellite connectivity could address significant public health challenges. It would enable remote consultations and diagnoses for millions of Africans, ATU says. During the Ebola outbreak in Sierra Leone, the Satmed platform was crucial in improving coordination of response efforts in remote areas. Additionally, real-time data sharing through satellite networks enhances health information systems, vital for tracking outbreaks and coordinating vaccination campaigns.

Satellite internet is also a valuable asset for online learning in rural schools. In Kenya, Avanti Communications’ iMlango project delivers satellite broadband, improving access to educational resources and student performance.

The technology also enables monitoring water quality and availability. In Ethiopia, the WaterScope project uses satellite data to support sustainable water resource management. Connected devices test water quality and map out safe drinking sources, as well as those requiring treatment before consumption (boiling, chlorination, etc.), sharing this information with local communities. In Uganda, satellites optimize energy infrastructure, particularly renewable energy projects. The SolarNow initiative uses satellite data to maximize solar panel exposure. In Nigeria, BeepTool has developed a satellite-based solution that combines TV white space and Wi-Fi to offer affordable connectivity, benefiting industries and innovations that rely on the internet for increased productivity. But to unlock the full transformative potential of satellite technology in Africa, several challenges need to be addressed.

Despite its potential for Africa’s economic and social development, deploying satellite connectivity and observation faces several hurdles. Fragmented regulatory frameworks, licensing issues, and spectrum allocation difficulties hinder the growth of satellite services. High satellite service costs and economic disparities limit accessibility. A lack of common standards and unreliable power sources make it hard to install and use equipment. Added to these are challenges like low digital literacy and political instability in certain regions.

To unlock satellite connectivity’s potential, the ATU recommends that African governments implement suitable regulatory frameworks. This includes harmonizing licenses and spectrum allocation, setting reasonable spectrum fees, and clarifying rules for emerging satellite technologies. Governments should also promote affordable satellite services and smartphones.

Telecom innovations are increasing the number of satellite constellations. Many telecom operators without terrestrial networks in remote or geographically challenging areas can now partner with satellite operators to serve these populations. Direct-to-Device (D2D) technology enables direct connections between satellites and mobile phones, helping improve mobile internet penetration rates. According to the World Bank, a 10% increase in mobile internet penetration in Africa could raise GDP per capita by 2.5%.