Mali’s military leadership overturned a ban on the sale and import of SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet kits, which had been enforced out of concern that Islamist terrorists and separatist rebels could use the equipment.
The ban came after reports of unauthorised use by non-state actors, raising concerns that the technology could improve communications for hostile factions affiliated with Al-Qaeda and ISIS.
Despite this, Starlink’s advanced satellite technology has helped bring the Internet to remote areas around the world, including parts of Mali.
Human rights activists and civil rights groups have used Starlink to report on atrocities committed by the military and Wagner, a Kremlin-linked mercenary organisation.
Insurgents in Mali face the military-backed national army with drones and satellite services.
Last month, Mali announced that it had signed agreements with Russia’s space agency to deploy telecoms and remote-sensing satellites across the Sahel.
Newsng understands that similar agreements were also signed by neighbouring countries, Burkina Faso and Niger.
In March, the Malian government declared that it had become aware of the unlawful use of the kits by non-state organisations and private persons in the dangerous north and east areas, which are rife with separatist and jihadist groups.
According to a communiqué issued by the government in March, the Council of Ministers and the Head of State of the Republic of Mali convened to consider and implement various steps.
During the original prohibition, the government promised to demolish Starlink terminals, citing national security concerns.
This week’s development represents a more cautious approach.
However, the government continues to underline the necessity of keeping Starlink access within the legal framework.
Mali has been fighting an insurgency and extremism since 2012, with continued efforts to quell bloodshed by groups linked with Islamist terrorists.
Given this hazardous context, the government’s initial opposition to Starlink was motivated by the necessity to limit Internet access in conflict zones.
We earlier reported that Gwynne Shotwell, the president of SpaceX, informed Texas lawmakers that the company will surpass 4 million Starlink users.
The statement was made by the corporation through a post on the social networking platform X. It also stated that the 4 million Starlink clients are dispersed throughout more than 100 countries, regions, and other markets.
