The humanitarian organizations in Sudan are urging Elon Musk to continue with his internet service provider, Starlink, as it provides life-saving assistance to millions of people in regions affected by an internet blackout.
The commercial satellite network has been said to be saving nearly 100 humanitarian organizations faced by the current Sudan displacement crisis.
Last month, SpaceX’s Starlink service engaged and communicated with its customers worldwide via email about its recent development to limit roaming in regions where the service lacked licensing.
However, Sudan, among others, relies on the commercial satellite network for humanitarian and human rights organizations to conduct their work amid a devastating civil war.
The Norwegian Refugee Council has issued a letter saying all measures must be put in place to save children and other organizations. The council also frowns at indiscriminate attacks and disruption of telecommunications resulting from the war.
According to the letter “When available, internet access has been instrumental in assisting civilians share and receive critical and often lifesaving information, including about safe areas and routes,”
“In areas where formal telecommunication is barely functioning, both civilians and local responders, such as Emergency Response Rooms (ERRs), often connect through informal Starlink internet cafes.”
“The potential shutdown of Starlink would have a disproportionate effect on civilians and the aid organizations who are trying to reach them.”
The war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan has been on since April 15, 2023. The one-year war has left various families homeless and destroyed livelihoods and various infrastructures.
Presently, Sudan has become the world’s worst displacement crisis and fast becoming the world’s most hungry African country.
