BSC’s Starlink authorization improves internet reliability in Rwanda

For years, geography has influenced who in Rwanda benefits from fast internet and who faces challenges with slow, unreliable connections. The gap may soon close considerably as Broadband Systems Corporation (BSC) has obtained exclusive rights to distribute Starlink services across the nation, providing high-speed satellite connectivity to rural schools, health centres, and businesses that were previously inaccessible to fibre infrastructure.

The tech company based in Rwanda is enhancing its role in expanding the country’s connectivity landscape, having been granted authorization as the exclusive wholesaler of Starlink’s internet in the country since late 2025.

BSC seeks to provide high-speed, reliable connectivity to citizens, communities, government institutions, and businesses throughout Rwanda and the surrounding region using Starlink’s satellite internet technology. Starlink is a venture owned by SpaceX, an aerospace company founded by billionaire Elon Musk.

The service enhances Rwanda’s existing fibre-optic backbone, facilitating improved internet access in remote areas where conventional infrastructure is scarce. This authorisation allows BSC, founded in 2010, to enhance its dedication to improving Rwanda’s digital infrastructure, providing reliable connectivity for residential and business users alike.

Since 2010, it has operated as an ISP. Before becoming an ISP, it was required to construct the national fiber backbone, which took place between 2008 and 2009. By 2010, the project was completed, and the firm made the transition into an ISP.

Utilizing Starlink to broaden high-speed internet connectivity beyond Rwanda’s fibre infrastructure

BSC, providing satellite services since 2012, transitioned to Starlink technology following its official launch in Rwanda in February 2023. The low-earth-orbit satellite system improves connectivity in underserved rural areas, fostering education, business development, and digital inclusion.

Ndoli Mitali, the Chief Commercial Officer at Broadband Systems Corporation, detailed that Starlink manages over 9,000 small satellites in low-earth orbit.

“These satellites, by orbiting much closer to Earth than traditional ones, significantly reduce latency and enhance the user experience,” he stated. This enables dependable fiber-like connectivity, even in regions with restricted fiber infrastructure.

“When measuring latency, such as when loading a Google page, traditional satellite internet typically took about 600 milliseconds.” He noted that with Starlink, latency is approximately 20 milliseconds, emphasizing that individuals in remote regions frequently depend on satellites because of the limited options and the significant expenses associated with infrastructure development.

Enhancing adoption, facilitating the digitization of diagnostic procedures in healthcare facilities

After receiving the resellership authorization, Mitali stated that BSC, with more than 1,800 schools connected to fiber and 1,400 to 4G, has utilized Starlink to extend its reach to areas where it can now offer a comparable connectivity experience.

He anticipated that within 12 months, Starlink connections might represent approximately 20 percent of BSC’s total client base, an increase from the 5 percent noted in the initial two months following authorization.

“At BSC, identifying how to access specific areas for delivering quality service is no longer a challenge.” He explained that they utilize Starlink to deliver a fibre-like experience.

According to him, the firm has successfully linked over 50 health centres in districts including Rulindo, Gakenke, and Musanze.

“Since deploying Starlink, we have observed enhancements in service delivery, leading some facilities to progress towards the digitisation of diagnostic processes.” He stated that their growing dependence on the internet is made possible by the provision of high-speed connectivity.

The enhancements in health facilities underscore the wider developmental effects of increased internet access, especially in areas that depend on real-time data and digital systems.

Starlink offerings are aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises, larger businesses, and social sectors.

BSC, having received authorization to distribute Starlink services, offers first-level customer support that aligns with global Starlink standards. The service is aimed at enterprises and small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which represent over 90 percent of businesses in Rwanda. Currently, only around 35 percent of businesses have access to reliable internet, indicating substantial potential for expansion.

“Within the next two months, we will introduce SME products under Starlink. Customers typically pay around Rwf1,000 for each Mbps. For example, packages that provide speeds exceeding 100 Mbps will be priced at approximately Rwf110,000 each month. He explained that this will have a significant impact on a market segment that has long faced challenges in balancing connectivity needs with budget constraints.

“Furthermore, we are launching an innovative product under Starlink aimed at enhancing the health, education, and community sectors, which encompasses ECD centres, youth centres, and community centres.” The package, referred to as the Impact Plan, will provide speeds of up to 300 Mbps for Rwf156,000 each month,” he stated.

In the enterprise sector, for entities already connected to BSC fibre, we are examining methods to incorporate Starlink into their current portfolios. He added, “For those not connected to BSC’s fibre network, we offer Starlink as a backup solution that automatically activates whenever the primary internet connection faces downtime or degradation.”

Mitali emphasized that for SMEs, the capacity is unlimited, while users in the health, education, and community sectors have access to up to 5 terabytes for their needs. Enjoy fast and unlimited internet access available across the nation, with quick installation and a complimentary Starlink kit—your only cost is the subscription fee.

Enhancing Rwanda’s extensive digital framework

BSC offers more than just satellite connectivity; it provides Direct Internet Access (DIA) through Fiber and Fixed Wireless, as well as dark fibre and Fibre VPN solutions for organizations in need of secure private networks. The infrastructure additionally facilitates 4G connectivity through telecom towers, wholesale offerings, cloud services, and data center operations, all supported by redundancy systems to ensure uninterrupted availability.

The company offers email and web hosting services, as well as cybersecurity management through its Defenza (Detect, Deter, and Defend) solution, which emphasizes the identification, prevention, and response to threats while protecting client networks. BSC also engages in IT project management and implementation.

Mitali stated that BSC has significantly contributed to Rwanda’s digital transformation, closely aligning with the government’s vision of leveraging technology for socio-economic development. The firm’s innovative spirit, combined with a focus on customer needs, has enabled it to create solutions that not only address the requirements of Rwandans but also empower them to thrive.

“There is a noticeable rise in headquarters and foreign companies establishing themselves in Rwanda due to the efficient operational environment available here.” “For anyone contemplating the establishment of a business or regional office in Rwanda, internet connectivity ranks low on their list of concerns,” he stated.

“We recently observed the visit of American live streamer and YouTuber IShowSpeed, along with the World Cycling Championship, both of which showcased the country’s robust connectivity,” he added.

Ways to establish a connection New subscribers can reach BSC by calling the toll-free number: 4141 or by visiting www.bsc.rw for registration. The company can also be contacted via its social media platforms @bscrw by sending a direct message for assistance.