MBABANE – Eswatini’s journey toward a digitally inclusive future took a significant leap forward with the launch of Paratus Eswatini, a new venture formed through a partnership between the Paratus Group and local ICT company Real Image.
The news company is set to deliver high-speed satellite internet through Low Earth Orbit (LEO) technology, starting with Starlink, SpaceX’s broadband solution.
The launch marks Eswatini’s official entry into LEO satellite internet, introducing a new era of connectivity for rural and underserved areas.
Speaking during the launch in Mbabane, Reale Image Managing Director, Ali Resting, described the move as a strategic response to the country’s geographical challenges.
“The terrain in Eswatini presents real challenges to laying fibre everywhere. If we don’t embrace new technologies like LEO, which are affordable, quick to deploy, and low maintenance, we’ll continue to leave people behind,” he said.
While Paratus Group is known across 15 sub-equatorial African countries for its fibre infrastructure, the focus in Eswatini is different. The emphasis here is on rapid deployment, affordability, and reliability, which are the key strengths of LEO satellite systems.
“Paratus Eswatini is being established to unlock those alternative technologies, starting with Starlink but expanding into future opportunities with providers like Amazon and OneWeb,” Resting said.
Representing the Eswatini Communications Commission (ESCCOM), Thulani Fakudze, who stood in for Chief Executive Mvilawemphi Dlamini, highlighted the milestone and the regulatory journey leading up to it. He acknowledged the complexity of introducing new technologies.
“From our side, we’ve had many discussions and engagements, not as easy as you put it,” Fakudze said. “The technology you’re bringing in comes with a lot of give and take. But we’re happy you’re here now. The ICT sector is ready for the next level.”
He also urged Paratus to make a meaningful difference beyond simply meeting regulatory requirements.
“You’re entering an industry with very frustrated consumers. But we believe with your entry, the dynamics are going to change in many aspects. With that, we say thank you, and we want to congratulate you for being part of the family in terms of the players that we regulate.”
Paratus Group CEO Schalk Erasmus, who travelled from the company’s Namibia-based headquarters, shared the organisation’s broader vision through the “Paratus 500” initiative, which aims to connect 500 million people across sub-equatorial Africa.
“Eswatini is not just another market. It’s a critical hub connecting South Africa, Mozambique, and Lesotho, and deserves world-class infrastructure,” Erasmus said.
He added that Paratus is not only focused on expanding but also embedding itself within the communities it serves.
“We invest in local people, build local partnerships, and develop long-term capabilities. Real Image has been in Eswatini for decades. Their integrity and expertise made them the perfect partner to bring Paratus here,” he said.
Paratus Eswatini also plans to support schools, rural clinics, community centres, and underserved households through its connectivity projects.
“In Mozambique, we’ve already deployed Starlink in remote villages with great success. The transformation is immediate, from education to healthcare to entrepreneurship,” Erasmus said. “Connectivity is no longer a luxury. It’s infrastructure. It’s an opportunity. It’s dignity.”
The launch of Paratus Eswatini comes at a time when the need for fast, affordable, and reliable internet is growing. With a focus on innovation, community impact, and rapid deployment, the company promises to bring a new standard of connectivity to the country.
“We’re not here to offer the same thing with a new name,” Resting concluded. “We’re here to change the game, to bring every corner of Eswatini online and to make sure no learner, clinic, or entrepreneur is left behind.”
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