Starlink internet by Elon Musk is helping Jamaica following Hurricane Melissa - the worst ever recorded there - as it also connects with its Prime Minister, Andrew Holness, via a link with his people across the diaspora - and saving the country during the overwhelming disaster.
As it provides a vision to the wider Caribbean, the server is also being widely used during the war in Ukrainian. Starlink played a crucial role in helping Jamaica restore connectivity after Hurricane Melissa devastated the island.
Here are some ways Starlink made a difference:
- Restoring Communication: Liberty Latin America partnered with Starlink to launch a satellite-based emergency communication system, providing critical connectivity in areas where traditional network infrastructure was compromised.
- Emergency Services: Starlink's direct-to-cell technology enabled immediate communication links between emergency responders, local authorities, and affected communities, facilitating rapid response and coordination.
- Supporting Healthcare: UNICEF and Starlink Services Jamaica collaborated to donate 50 Starlink kits to the Ministry of Health and Wellness, helping restore communication networks in health facilities serving affected areas.
As for how this benefits Elon Musk, it's worth noting that Starlink is a subsidiary of SpaceX, which Musk founded. While the company's philanthropic efforts can enhance its public image, the partnership with Liberty Latin America and other organizations in Jamaica also opens up new markets and opportunities for Starlink's satellite internet services.
This can help SpaceX achieve its goal of providing global connectivity and generating revenue. In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, the Jamaican government also issued guidelines for safely deploying Starlink systems, emphasizing physical safety, theft prevention, power protection, and cybersecurity best practices.
