StarLink, a satellite internet constellation operated by StartLink Services has improved communication and internet access in Abyei Special Administrative Area (ASAA). Abyei FM Umbrella narrowcasting service on Monday 15th July discussed communication breakthroughs with consumers, service providers, and a government official.
A dozen internet cafes help people to make calls (audio & video) with relatives and friends within South Sudan or abroad, browsing and researching.
“With StarLink, I can cheaply communicate with my children schooling abroad and coach them. This is significant because other networks are unreliable and expensive” a user told Abyei FM.
Abyei face network and internet blackouts for days, especially in the rainy season as local telecommunication companies aren’t consistent with their services.
A café operator said that the business had earns him enough income for his family and helps a lot in security-related communications.
“I imported StarLink kits from Kenya before the company was licensed by the National Communication Authority (NCA). Now we will get orders from a service provider in Juba.” Said Pouch Monyak.
The Area Minister of Information, Culture, Youth, and Sports who doubles as the government spokesperson hailed StarLink services in the region.
“It has helped us in mail communication within and with the national government in Juba, and updates of the government Facebook page. Very soon we will launch the Abyei Area Website,” said Bulis Koch Aguar.
In June this year, NCA issued an operation license for StarLink and earlier this month approved the tariff proposals submitted by the company. The telecommunication regulatory body cautioned the public from importing StarLink kits from unauthorized distributors as it violates the National Communication Act 2012.
