Spacecoin, a satellite network operator, has struck a number of landmark agreements with governments, telecoms providers, and internet of things (IoT) entrepreneurs in Africa and Asia for satellite pilots on both continents.
According to the firm, the collaborations represent a significant step forward in its objective to democratise internet access through a blockchain-integrated satellite infrastructure, which was announced following the successful launch of three additional satellites in late November last year.
The agreements, which include Kenya, Nigeria, Indonesia, and Cambodia, are intended to speed up the construction of decentralised satellite communication systems in areas where terrestrial infrastructure is limited in terms of economic and logistical resources.
This comes as Africa becomes a battle ground for satellite internet providers, with SpaceX-owned Starlink establishing dominance in the market, with presence covering 26 nations.
Spacecoin stated that the partnerships include a transmission license with the Kenyan Communications Authority for satellite IoT monitoring and connectivity expansion, continued work under an existing Nigerian Communications Commission license, collaboration with local partners and agencies to address Indonesia's archipelago connectivity, and an alliance with Cambodia's MekongNet to extend satellite-powered internet to rural communities.
It went on to add that they include proof-of-concept demonstrations of decentralised telecommunications infrastructure. The firm will provide the core technology and satellite infrastructure, and work with local partners to oversee ground operations, liaise with local parties, or provide local user support.
Furthermore, the business aims to extend its footprint across emerging markets where affordable, open connectivity can transform economies and empower communities, as additional governments and private-sector organisations express interest.
Tae Oh, founder of Spacecoin underlined the significance of regulation in recognising alternative connectivity measures.
He commented: “Regulatory bodies in key regions are recognising that decentralised satellite technology can deliver the scalability and affordability traditional infrastructure cannot.”
He went on: “These agreements confirm that Spacecoin has moved beyond being just an idea, but a real movement with momentum that will unlock permissionless connectivity through open-sourced satellite technology, powered by people and built for people.”
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