In early February 2026, Starlink announced it had paid for an operating permit in The Gambia but was still awaiting approval from President Adama Barrow’s government.
The delay centres on questions about the country’s capacity to regulate and supervise satellite services, sparking debate over national security and economic impact.
Speaking on QTV earlier this year, Hon. Lamin Jabbie, Minister of Digital Economy, revealed why the government has not approved Starlink’s application despite payment. “I was asked as Minister to authorise the granting of a VSAT permit to Starlink. But I refused to approve the permit,” the Minister stated.
According to Standard, in 2023, The Gambia recorded an average mobile data cost of USD 3.56 per gigabyte, ranking among the most expensive countries in Africa for internet access, reportedly placing 9th on the continent for high mobile data prices.
The report also noted that The Gambia ranked 202nd globally in data affordability, highlighting persistent challenges with the cost of internet access despite ongoing digital development efforts.
As of mid-May 2026, Starlink had not responded to requests for comment. The Gambian government’s decision on Starlink’s operating licence remains pending, balancing competing priorities of improved connectivity, national security, regulatory capacity, and economic impact on existing providers.
Source: https://spaceinafrica.com/2026/05/20/gambia-delays-starlink-licence-amid-national-security-and-economic-concerns/