KEY POINTS
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Paratus launches Starlink-powered broadband service in Rwanda.
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Expansion aligns with Africa-wide digital growth strategy.
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Company targets 600,000 new connections by 2028.
Paratus Group, the pan-African telecommunications firm led by Namibian executive Schalk Erasmus, has expanded its continental footprint with the official launch of Paratus Rwanda, marking another step in its mission to strengthen Africa’s digital infrastructure.
The launch underscores Paratus’ commitment to improving internet access across Africa by delivering fast and reliable broadband services to both urban and remote businesses. The company’s new Rwandan arm will install and manage Starlink broadband solutions, expanding access to high-speed satellite internet in regions still underserved by traditional networks.
Expanding reach through Starlink technology
Paratus became the official African distributor of Starlink’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite services in 2023. The agreement enables the company to deliver broadband connectivity in areas where fiber and mobile networks remain inconsistent or unavailable.
Erasmus said the expansion reflects Paratus’ long-term vision of “building Africa’s quality network” through steady investments in people, infrastructure, and technology. “Rwanda’s dynamic, fast-growing market aligns perfectly with our vision,” he said. “The addition of Paratus Rwanda strengthens our capacity to deliver reliable, high-quality service to businesses nationwide.”
The firm intends to serve multiple sectors, including finance, retail, government, agriculture, tourism, and non-governmental organizations. WWith Starlink’s satellite technology, Paratus aims to provide stable broadband access to enterprises in remote locations, enabling them to support modern operations.
Recent subsea cable failures across Africa have led many companies to seek more resilient network solutions. Paratus says its partnership with Starlink offers a dependable alternative, functioning as both a main and backup connection for businesses facing unstable terrestrial networks.
“We’re excited to begin operations in Rwanda,” said Martin Cox, Chief Commercial Officer of Paratus Group. “This launch helps us connect more people and unlock new opportunities through dependable internet access.”
Strengthening digital inclusion in Africa
Starlink’s scalable satellite network supports thousands of business sites globally, offering flexible connectivity, mobility, and emergency communication options.
According to Billionaire Africa, Paratus now operates in 15 countries, employs about 800 people, and delivers satellite broadband in more than 30 African markets. The group has invested heavily in the East-to-West Africa fiber route, maintaining direct links from Johannesburg to Europe and the UK.
Since assuming leadership in 2022, Erasmus has driven a five-year expansion plan aimed at connecting 600,000 new users by 2028. In September, Paratus also launched Namibia’s first private LTE and 5G network, a $34 million investment connecting 50 towns and 80 communities.
