Senegal has picked a clear target for its next big connectivity push. The government wants to give free internet access to one million people by June 2026, and it plans to lean on Starlink to get there. Officials say they also negotiated the purchase of 5,000 Starlink terminals at a preferential price to support the rollout.
Across Africa, governments and operators now treat satellite broadband as a practical tool, not a backup plan. They use it to reach remote zones faster, connect public services, and reduce network gaps that mobile coverage still fails to fix.
Starlink has started commercial service in Senegal, according to reports that cite the company’s public announcement. That gives Senegal another option alongside mobile networks and fixed broadband, especially in areas where operators struggle with cost and terrain.
Industry trackers also point out that Starlink keeps expanding in Africa, but it still faces local rules that can slow or pause operations in some markets. That mix of fast rollout and strict regulation now defines the satellite internet story on the continent.
Senegal sets a June 2026 deadline for one million free users
The government plan focuses on access, not hype. Senegal wants to push free connectivity in priority areas such as white zones, community Wi-Fi, schools and training, local authorities, and border areas, according to the Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy.
That matters because Senegal does not struggle with “some coverage.” It struggles with uneven quality and real usage. Many people still live in places where signals drop, speeds fall, or service never arrives.
Pricing will decide how far Starlink can go
Starlink will not win on coverage alone. People will compare cost against the value they feel daily.
Reports say Starlink offers monthly plans priced around CFA22,000 and CFA30,000, with equipment sold separately in the CFA117,000 to CFA146,000 range. Starlink also advertises download speeds that can reach up to 305 Mbps, depending on conditions.
That price level can work for businesses, institutions, and shared access points. But households may still find it hard, especially outside cities. This is where Senegal’s free access program and community Wi Fi model can help. It can spread the cost across many users.
Senegal still needs phones, skills, and trust to grow real usage
Even if Senegal fixes coverage and cost in key areas, adoption will still depend on basics.
People need devices that can use Wi Fi. They need digital skills to use online services. They also need content that matches their lives, in languages they use. And they need confidence around safety, scams, and privacy.
This is the hard part of digital inclusion. Infrastructure starts the journey.
What to watch next in 2026
We need to watch these signals. First, how fast community Wi Fi hubs reach white zones. Second, how many schools and health sites get stable service? Third, how the government handles pricing support for public access points. Finally, how local operators respond with better rural coverage and lower prices.
If Senegal hits its one million target, it will send a strong message across the region. Governments can mix satellite and mobile networks and connect more people faster.
