VICTORIA, Seychelles — July 22, 2026 (XOL Africa) — Households and businesses in Seychelles now have access to Starlink’s satellite internet service, adding another connectivity option to the Indian Ocean nation’s telecommunications market.
The service’s soft launch was held Tuesday at State House during a press conference jointly led by Vice President Sebastien Pillay and the Seychelles Communications Regulatory Authority, or SCRA.
Officials outlined the regulatory framework governing Starlink’s operations, the services it will provide and how satellite broadband is expected to complement existing telecommunications infrastructure.
Pillay described Starlink’s arrival as an important step in Seychelles’ digital transformation, saying the government is committed to ensuring that people have access to reliable, affordable and high-quality internet services while maintaining a fair and competitive telecommunications market.
He said the adoption of new technologies is essential to supporting economic growth, improving public services and creating opportunities for businesses, students and communities.
Pillay also stressed the importance of regulation alongside innovation, saying new technologies must operate within a framework that protects consumers, safeguards national interests and promotes healthy competition.
SCRA representatives said Starlink had been authorized to operate in Seychelles under the country’s regulatory framework. The authority will oversee compliance with national laws, technical standards and consumer protection requirements.
Officials said satellite broadband could help improve connectivity in areas where conventional telecommunications infrastructure may be more difficult or expensive to deploy.
Unlike traditional fixed broadband services, Starlink requires customers to install a receiver in an open location with a clear, unobstructed view of the sky. Officials warned that trees, buildings and other obstacles could affect service quality and urged customers to carefully assess installation locations.
Subscriptions are now available through Starlink’s online platform, where customers can register, order the required hardware and complete the subscription process. Officials said some residents in Seychelles have already purchased Starlink kits and begun using the service.
The press conference also allowed journalists to ask questions about the rollout, licensing arrangements, subscription procedures and the potential impact of Starlink’s entry on Seychelles’ telecommunications sector.
Although Tuesday’s event marked the soft launch of the service, officials said a formal launch will be held at a later date and is expected to include representatives from Starlink.
The phased rollout gives the company time to establish its local operations while allowing consumers to begin accessing the satellite-based internet service.
The launch marks Starlink’s entry into the Seychelles market as the country seeks to expand connectivity options while ensuring that developments in the communications sector remain subject to regulatory oversight.
