DRC’s $400m satellite deal to supercharge digital access and online gambling
MonacoSat partnership aims to expand high-speed internet, boost DRC’s digital economy and create new opportunities for online gambling.
DRC.- The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is poised to reshape its digital landscape through a $400m satellite project in partnership with MonacoSat, a move expected to revolutionise the country’s online gambling and broader internet ecosystem.
High-level talks in Kinshasa highlighted the strategic importance of the project for national connectivity. Officials and investors are exploring ways to bridge the digital divide in a country where fewer than one-third of citizens currently use mobile internet.
TechAfrica said: “The initiative, designed to accelerate digital access across the country, has already attracted financial pledges amounting to as much as $400m, according to MonacoSat officials.”
While financing is still being finalised, the commitment signals confidence in the satellite’s potential to expand access to online platforms, including igaming and sports betting, by providing faster, more reliable internet and enhanced cybersecurity for smoother gameplay, secure transactions and wider participation across the country.
TechAfrica added: “High-level talks in Kinshasa brought together DRC President Felix Tshisekedi, MonacoSat’s representative Jean-Philippe Anvam, and senior members of government, including Digital Economy Minister Augustin Kibassa and Telecommunications Minister Jose Kabangu.” These discussions focused on how the satellite could transform connectivity nationwide.
Satellite to boost DRC’s digital economy and igaming
In addition to improving connectivity, the satellite is set to have wide-reaching benefits for DRC’s digital economy. It is set to bolster cybersecurity, enable telemedicine, expand access to e-learning and stimulate digital growth. These improvements are also expected to create an ideal environment for online gambling platforms, from secure payments to more reliable gameplay.
Fidelity Bank of Nigeria has pledged support, establishing a joint task force with the Ministry of Digital Economy and planning a Kinshasa-based subsidiary focused on technology-driven investments and financial inclusion.
With the DRC’s ambitious 50,000km (31,000 miles) national fibre backbone facing delays, satellite technology offers a faster and more flexible solution. The entry of satellite provider Starlink in June 2025 further demonstrates the country’s growing commitment to expanding reliable digital access.
As the national satellite prepares for launch, DRC’s online gambling market could experience a surge in participation, attracting new players and opening revenue opportunities for operators while supporting the broader digital economy.
