Due to its large and complex geography, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), a nation of over 100 million people, of which more than half live in remote areas, faces enormous challenges in achieving internet access. Satellite technology is proving critical in this challenging environment, allowing individuals, communities, and businesses in urban and rural areas to access the internet.
A longtime partner in DRC’s connectivity journey, Intelsat (now part of SES) deepened its commitment in 2022 by investing in infrastructure and systems that help mobile network operators (MNOs) broaden and simplify the deployment of cellular services. This investment follows years of leveraging high-performance satellites for cellular backup coverage to remote regions.
Currently, all MNOs in the DRC leverage a satellite ground platform through which Intelsat delivers its CellBackhaul service. This managed cellular backhaul service involves Intelsat managing the satellite components that connect cell towers to the MNOs’ core networks. This enables the MNOs to extend their networks across the country quickly, economically, and with high performance, even to the most remote areas, supporting reliable connectivity.
The impact has been transformative, promoting digital inclusion where people can use mobile money, get support from loved ones, and make calls. This transformative impact resonates with the Congolese American humanitarian Dikembe Mutombo, former professional basketball player, who emphasized, “We cannot have a strong, independent, and successful Africa without an educated and connected population. This is how we change our future – we need African solutions to address African problems.” The DRC has approximately 850 active CellBackhaul sites. In 2024 alone, the service facilitated over 1,000 terabytes of data traffic, a testament to its value. The benefits of this platform extend to neighboring countries. With similar platforms being set up in South Africa and Nigeria, Intelsat’s investment in the DRC is part of a broader, continent-wide commitment. With the goal of connecting the unconnected and powering a more inclusive digital future, global providers passionately believe everyone deserves access to the digital world.
To learn more about Intelsat’s efforts and impact, read the full blog here.
