Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, the Gambia) – The Gambia is taking action to get connected to Starlink in an effort to close the digital gap and improve the nation’s internet access. In this context, Elon Musk, the proprietor of Starlink, and Hon. Dr. Mamadou Tangara, Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Gambians Abroad, recently had a virtual meeting.

Both discussed bridging the digital divide, harmonizing transformative technological opportunities, and providing easy access to technologies for schools to enhance STEM education.

Additionally, they explored platforms for quality service delivery in various sectors and how Starlink could accelerate social development in The Gambia.

Following the virtual meeting, Mr. Ben MacWilliams, Starlink’s Director of Global Licensing and Activation, met with Dr. Tangara at his office in Banjul on July 23, 2024. This in-person meeting followed Mr. MacWilliams’ discussions with the leadership of the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) and the Minister for Information, who currently oversees the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy.

The focus of these meetings was on improving internet access and leveraging it to enhance service delivery in sectors such as education, digital technologies, and information access.

Dr. Tangara emphasized that this initiative would create significant opportunities for young people in The Gambia to engage with and benefit from various platforms that support 21st-century economies.

He also expressed interest in exploring emerging technologies to address key issues in the healthcare and education sectors, reaffirming the government’s commitment to enhancing service delivery across various sectors.

This partnership with Starlink holds promise for The Gambia, potentially transforming the nation’s digital landscape and fostering socio-economic development.