Another GSM Competitor Expected? LTA In Talks With Elon Musk’s Starlink

Liberia Telecommunication Authority (LTA) has disclosed that its commissioners are in talks with Starlink, owner of the world’s richest man Elon Musk, and that the first acquaintance meeting to roll out internet services to Liberia already held September 11.

Starlink internet firm is reportedly owned by one of the wealthiest men on earth, Elon Musk, who “has chosen Liberia as their top priority to provide seamless internet services throughout the country”.

“Starlink, the broadband satellite internet provider, says Liberia is their top priority right now,” said an LTA release. “The global internet provider is seeking a one-year provisional license to provide internet services throughout Liberia providing healthy competition to our telecommunications landscape.”

The meeting between both parties was aimed at sorting out modalities and finding an amicable resolution before rolling out the service to the Liberians.

“A full LTA Board of Commissioners held a productive meeting with Starlink today reviewing the draft license. It will be forwarded to their counsellor for review and final inputs. Signing and rolling out Starlink services will begin once the final document is signed”, the LTA statement further narrated.

Starlink is a satellite internet constellation operated by Starlink Services, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of American aerospace company SpaceX, providing coverage to 102 countries and aims to provide global mobile broadband.

It can be recalled on Sunday, July 21, 2024, Pres. Joseph N. Boakai Sr. held a conversation with Elon Musk via telephone.  During their conversation, Pres. Boakai highlighted the importance of such engagement, noting that it serves as an opportunity for relationship building and long term mutually beneficial outcomes.

The President of Liberia also emphasized the significance of technology to the youthful generation of Liberia as well as key sectors, highlighting the need for collaboration and helping in the service delivery sectors for Liberia.

However, Mr. Musk emphasized the significance of the Starlink program, a satellite internet

constellation operated by Starlink Services, LLC, with coverage of 80 countries, and articulated his support for advancing initiatives related to education and healthcare.

He underscored the potential impact of internet connectivity in empowering rural communities and driving progress in vital sectors.

Furthermore, the Liberian Leader extended an open invitation to Mr. Musk and his team to visit Liberia, reaffirming his government’s dedication to continual engagement and collaboration.

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