DRC Partners with Monacosat to Bridge Digital Divide with Satellite Project
The DRC and Monacosat signed an MoU to deploy satellite connectivity, enhancing rural access, digital inclusion, education, healthcare, and economic development across the country.
As part of the digital cooperation between the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Principality of Monaco, the Minister of Posts, Telecommunications and Digital, Augustin Kibassa Maliba signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Monacosat on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 in Monaco. This protocol of agreement concerns the implementation of a satellite project. The ceremony took place at the headquarters of Monacosat in the presence of a Representative of the Government of Monaco.
The Minister of PTN and Monacosat have decided to work closely and consult on issues of common interest, on the DRC’s deployment of a satellite telecommunications network through the means of satellite capacity acquisition from Monacosat.
This is in the interest of eliminating the lack of access to digital tools in rural areas where it is hard to access.
Considering the geostrategic position of the DRC in Central Africa, and its possibility to generate more economic values by positioning itself as a provider of satellite capabilities to its regional neighbours, Monacosat did not hide its satisfaction to see this project materialize for the development of the country in particular and Africa in general.
The objectives of this project are: to reduce the digital divide in the Democratic Republic of Congo; to provide the opportunity to improve access to information and communication technologies, especially in the field of health and education; to digitize public services; to cover rural areas. This cooperation comes to make up for the delay in the implementation of the national backbone (estimated nearly 50 thousand kilometers) due to the lack of investment attractiveness.
Speaking, Augustin Kibassa Maliba promised to implement everything and work as it should to get out of the concrete. He also announced the deployment of a working team for better follow-up and a happy ending.
It is important to emphasize that satellite internet connections are very important for the Democratic Republic of Congo for the following reasons:
1. Wide geographic coverage:
DRC is a large country with mostly rural population. Fiber optic and terrestrial networks cover only dense urban areas, leaving the majority of the population without internet access. Satellite Internet connections can fill this digital divide by offering nationwide coverage, including in rural and remote areas.
2. Improving the education:
Internet access allows students and teachers to access online educational resources, take classes online, and connect with experts from around the world. This can improve the quality of education and provide learning opportunities for all, irrespective of their geographical location.
3. Economic development:
Internet is an essential tool for economic development. It enables businesses to access new markets, promote their products and services, and connect with customers and partners worldwide. Satellite internet access can boost economic growth in DRC by encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation.
4. Improving healthcare services:
The Internet can be used to provide remote health services, such as teleconsulting and telemedicine. This could improve access to health care for rural and isolated populations.
5. Access to information and communication:
The Internet allows citizens to stay informed, communicate with their families and friends, and participate in public life. This can contribute to consolidating democracy and the promotion of human rights.
