French telecom giant Orange has launched a new satellite internet service in Tunisia, marking a significant step in its strategy to expand across Africa’s fast-growing connectivity market. The move aims to improve internet access in underserved regions while challenging the dominance of SpaceX’s Starlink.
Orange Tunisie announced that its satellite service now provides nationwide coverage, offering faster speeds, improved bandwidth, and more stable connections compared to older technologies. The service includes packages with speeds of up to 100 Mbps, targeting both households and businesses, especially in remote areas where reliable internet is limited.
This rollout builds on Orange’s earlier satellite launches in Côte d’Ivoire and Senegal, following a long-term partnership with Eutelsat signed in 2025. The expansion relies on the Eutelsat Konnect satellite, with plans to extend services to more countries including the Democratic Republic of Congo and others across the region.
Industry experts highlight that satellite internet is becoming increasingly important in Africa, helping bridge the digital divide by connecting rural and isolated communities. However, the market remains highly competitive, with Starlink currently leading operations in around 30 African countries and planning further expansion.
Other players, including YahClick and Avanti Communications, are also active in the sector, while Amazon’s Project Kuiper is preparing to enter the market in the near future.
Despite growing demand, affordability remains a key challenge. Monthly subscription costs for satellite internet services from both Orange and Starlink are relatively high compared to average incomes in many African countries. In some cases, these costs exceed international affordability benchmarks, limiting access for a large portion of the population.
Regulatory hurdles also pose challenges, as satellite providers must secure approvals in each country. Starlink, for example, has faced delays in markets like South Africa due to local ownership requirements.
Overall, Orange’s expansion signals increasing competition in Africa’s satellite internet sector, but pricing and regulatory barriers may determine how quickly these services can reach wider populations.
