By 
Satellite internet giant ordered to set up local office, customer support, and meet licensing requirements.
Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, has issued a 30-day ultimatum to satellite internet provider Starlink to comply with key regulatory requirements or face enforcement actions. The directive, announced on May 16, underscores Ghana’s firm stance on digital sovereignty, regulatory compliance, and consumer protection in the digital era.
RELATED: Starlink remains market leader in Sub-Saharan Africa
Since Starlink began operations in Ghana in August 2024, it has offered satellite internet services without a physical office or a dedicated customer service center—a situation the government now demands be rectified.
Ghana’s Key Requirements for Starlink
As part of the compliance directive, the Ministry outlined the following non-negotiable conditions:
- Local Presence: Starlink must establish a physical office in Ghana to enable effective engagement and oversight.
- Customer Support Infrastructure: The company must set up a local support center and toll-free hotline for users.
- Full Regulatory Compliance: Starlink must adhere to licensing rules, tax obligations, and telecommunications laws in Ghana.
George emphasized the government’s willingness to collaborate with Starlink in expanding internet access to underserved rural communities, but stressed that “regulatory alignment must come first.”
Starlink’s Regulatory Challenges Across Africa
Starlink, operated by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, is also facing pushback in other African countries. In South Africa, Starlink has not applied for mandatory Electronic Communications Network Services (ECNS) and Electronic Communications Services (ECS) licenses. The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) confirmed no application had been received, while Vodacom voiced strong support for enforcing local ownership and compliance standards.
These developments signal a growing consensus among African nations to ensure fair competition and accountability from global tech firms entering their markets.
Minister’s Outlook: Partnerships Possible After Compliance
Hon. George acknowledged that Starlink’s satellite technology could help bridge the rural-urban digital divide in Ghana, but reiterated that regulatory frameworks must be respected before any deeper partnerships can be explored.
“We are open to collaboration. But Ghana’s digital ecosystem must be protected through fair, transparent, and enforceable regulations,” said the Minister.
