Access to reliable and high-speed internet in Pakistan is about to get a major boost, thanks to a collaboration between PAKSAT and Kacific Broadband Satellites Group. This partnership will provide affordable satellite internet across the country, especially in remote and underserved areas where traditional broadband services are not available. With more than 54% of the population lacking reliable internet, this initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and empower businesses, communities, and government organizations.
Pakistan’s Paksat-MM1 satellite will play a key role in this project by using 11 Ka-band spot beams to deliver high-speed internet to over 20,000 sites. This means that homes, businesses, and even government offices in far-flung areas will soon enjoy uninterrupted connectivity. The initiative will also improve mobile backhaul services, making cellular networks stronger and more reliable.
Strengthening Pakistan’s Digital Future
According to Dr. Shahid Rasheed, CEO of PAKSAT, improving connectivity will not only help people stay connected but will also boost Pakistan’s economy. He emphasized that Pakistanis deserve access to fast and affordable internet, just like people in developed countries.
Kacific’s CEO, Christian Patouraux, also highlighted that the company is committed to Pakistan’s digital growth. Kacific is already working to train KAD (Kacific Authorized Distributor) installers to set up the necessary infrastructure quickly and efficiently.
Addressing Pakistan’s Internet Challenges
Despite increasing demand for broadband, 131.8 million people in Pakistan still do not have internet access. Fiber broadband is available to less than 5% of homes, and only 15% of cell towers in the country are fiber-connected, whereas the international standard is 40%. This means that traditional infrastructure is not growing fast enough to meet the needs of users.
Kacific’s satellite service will bypass these infrastructure limitations and provide a cost-effective alternative to fiber. This will ensure faster, more reliable internet across Pakistan.
Paksat-MM1: The Game-Changer for Connectivity
Launched in May 2024, Paksat-MM1 is a high-power, multi-mission satellite offering 99% availability with seamless nationwide coverage. It has dedicated gateway beams in major cities like Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad, ensuring real-time monitored connectivity with 24/7 support.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called this satellite a “momentous achievement”, recognizing its potential to revolutionize Pakistan’s digital landscape. The Minister of IT & Telecom, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, also emphasized the government’s commitment to making connectivity accessible to everyone, especially in rural and remote areas.
Affordable Internet Plans for Everyone
Kacific is launching Gigstarter plans, which offer affordable, high-speed internet with unlimited data and easy, low-cost installation. These plans include:
✅ 30/20 Mbps (Entry-level plan)
✅ 60/20 Mbps (Faster speeds, higher data quota)
✅ 100/20 Mbps (Best speed option)
These plans will be available through licensed operators in Pakistan. Kacific also plans to train and certify hundreds of local distributors to install and maintain internet services, creating job opportunities and boosting community engagement.
Read Also: Pakistan Internet Struggles Due to Limited Competition!
