Amazon is preparing to bring its low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet service to South Africa, potentially before the end of 2026, adding to the growing wave of space-based broadband initiatives.
The service, operated through Amazon LEO (formerly Project Kuiper), will be delivered locally via licensed South African partners, rather than directly to consumers. Helen Kyeyune, Amazon LEO’s regulatory lead for sub-Saharan Africa, provided the update during ICASA’s public hearings on the country’s draft radio frequency plan.
Under this model, Amazon will supply the satellites and handle spectrum and technical approvals, while local Internet service providers will manage customer interactions and regulatory compliance. Simply put: Amazon powers the network, and local companies sell the service.
The move is significant because LEO satellites promise faster and lower-latency internet, particularly in areas where fibre and mobile networks struggle to reach. With thousands of satellites planned for the Amazon LEO constellation, the company is positioning itself as a serious competitor to Starlink in expanding broadband access to underserved communities in Africa.
The timing of Amazon’s entry is also notable. South Africa is still finalising regulations for satellite Internet, while Starlink’s operations remain limited due to local ownership rules. Amazon’s partner-led approach, combined with existing relationships with operators such as Vodacom, could allow it to roll out services more smoothly amid increasing competition in Africa’s satellite internet race.
