Key facts
- Amazon's satellite internet venture, Amazon Leo, will launch in South Africa in 2027.
- The service will be provided in partnership with South African internet provider Herotel.
- The new broadband service, called evry, aims to connect underserved rural communities.
- Amazon Leo has deployed over 390 operational low-orbit satellites.
- SpaceX's Starlink is also seeking to enter the South African market but faces regulatory hurdles.
Amazon's low-earth orbit satellite internet venture, Amazon Leo, has signed an agreement with South African provider Herotel to launch a new broadband service called evry in 2027. This partnership aims to connect underserved rural communities, addressing a significant connectivity gap where millions lack reliable internet access due to the uneconomical deployment of conventional networks.
Herotel, South Africa's largest fixed internet service provider and owned by Maziv, serves over 350,000 customers across more than 550 towns. The company's existing footprint will enable it to provide installation, customer service, and field operations for the satellite service from its launch.
The deal positions Amazon Leo to potentially enter the South African market ahead of SpaceX's Starlink, which is awaiting proposed changes to licensing rules that could allow foreign operators to meet local ownership requirements. Amazon Leo has deployed over 390 operational satellites, while Starlink has over 10,000 in orbit.
David Zapolsky, Amazon's chief global affairs and legal officer, stated that the collaboration aims to break down barriers and unlock opportunities for millions without reliable internet access for work, education, or essential services. Earlier this year, Amazon Leo also partnered with Vodafone to link its network to base stations in Africa via Vodacom.