Starlink has extended its satellite backhaul services to over 100 rural base stations of Africa Mobile Networks (AMN) in Nigeria. This deployment, ongoing since their initial agreement in 2023, significantly boosts connectivity in remote areas. AMN saw a 45% rise in traffic across sites connected via Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites.
This partnership helps AMN leverage the capabilities of its AMN Radio Node (ARN). The ARN, a multi-carrier, multi-technology radio node, supports up to five simultaneous carriers in different configurations. Using LEO backhaul, AMN can remotely increase base station capacity without altering existing hardware on-site.
The impact on local communities is profound. Previously, these areas lacked any mobile network. Now, farmers access market prices, healthcare providers consult remotely, and secure financial transactions become possible. As AMN put it, mobile connectivity transforms lives, enabling economic and social growth beyond individual communities.
This development also aligns with broader trends in satellite connectivity. Recently, Japanese telecom giant Softbank announced its integration of Eutelsat’s OneWeb constellation into its services. This deal aims to enhance satellite communications for businesses and government agencies in Japan.
As Starlink continues to expand its footprint, it eyes doubling the number of connected base stations in Nigeria by year-end. This progress showcases the growing reliance on satellite technology to bridge connectivity gaps in underserved regions. The collaboration reflects a significant stride toward global digital inclusion.
