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The presence of Starlink, the world’s largest satellite constellation, does not threaten local data sovereignty and security across Africa. However, there are concerns over the security and integrity of data when it is in transit. Andrew Cruise, the Managing Director of Routed, a connectivity provider, suggests that internet service providers (ISPs) and wireless internet service providers (WISPs) should be regulated by local communications bodies to ensure the secure flow and safe processing of data.

Cruise emphasizes that data should be encrypted both at rest and in transit to protect its security and integrity. He also suggests that all ISPs, including WISPs and satellite providers, should be regulated by local communications bodies. The parent company of Starlink, SpaceX, provides high-bandwidth internet access using low Earth orbit satellites. This enables users in 45 countries to access broadband internet for streaming, online gaming, and video calls.

Data sovereignty refers to the legal control and authority of data within a defined nation’s jurisdictional boundaries. Cruise highlights the importance of data sovereignty for national interest and security. He states that a nation’s success relies on companies and individuals keeping their data safe within its jurisdiction.

Cruise acknowledges that developing countries, particularly those in Africa, may want data sovereignty but may not invest heavily in data centers. However, he believes that infrastructure in the country is necessary for achieving data sovereignty.

In Sub-Saharan African countries, data sovereignty regulations in South Africa make it challenging for these countries to collocate or host their data there. Consequently, new colocation infrastructure, such as data centers, is being built in-country to address these concerns.

Routed delivers cloud and infrastructure solutions to enterprise customers, wholesale partners, resellers, and affiliates nationwide.

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