Faith Nyasuguta
SpaceX’s satellite broadband service, Starlink, has officially launched in Zimbabwe, offering internet access for $50 per month. Additionally, customers must pay a one-time setup fee of $350 for the necessary equipment, according to details on the company’s website.
This launch comes four months after Zimbabwe granted Elon Musk’s SpaceX permission to operate its satellite internet service within the country. Prior to this approval, the use of Starlink had been prohibited, with the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) threatening arrests for anyone caught distributing or advertising the devices.
The path to approval was marred by controversy. Neville Mutsvangwa, the son of Zanu PF’s spokesperson, was arrested earlier this year for allegedly possessing a Starlink terminal illegally, violating the Postal and Telecommunications Act. Despite the ban, many Zimbabweans continued to find ways to access Starlink’s services. In April 2024, following a directive from the regulator, Starlink warned its Zimbabwean users that it would disable its roaming service, prompting further uncertainty among customers.
As of 2021, only 34.8% of Zimbabwe’s population had internet access, highlighting the country’s connectivity challenges. The arrival of Starlink is seen as a potential game changer, offering a solution to the persistent issues of high data costs and limited connectivity, especially in rural areas where traditional internet service providers have struggled to establish a presence.
Starlink made its debut in Africa in January 2023, with Nigeria as its first launch site. The satellite internet provider pledged to revolutionize high-speed internet connectivity across the continent, and by October 2023, it was officially available in seven African countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, Mozambique, Rwanda, Malawi, and Zambia. Since then, Starlink has expanded to at least 14 African nations, with Zimbabwe being the latest addition to its network.
However, Starlink’s expansion in Africa has not been without obstacles. Africa has the lowest internet penetration rate in the world, with only 40% of the 1.3 billion people connected. Regulatory hurdles have been a significant challenge. In August 2023, South Africa banned the import of Starlink kits, preventing the country from joining SpaceX’s satellite internet network despite its availability in neighboring countries.
South Africa, the region’s largest economy, remains excluded from Starlink’s service due to ongoing regulatory concerns.
Other African countries have had mixed responses to Starlink. In April 2024, Cameroon banned the import of Starlink kits and began seizing equipment at the border. Conversely, Ghana approved Starlink’s application to offer satellite broadband services, signaling a more welcoming approach.
In February 2024, Starlink discontinued service for hundreds of South African users, citing alleged trademark and copyright violations. The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) had previously warned against the import and sale of Starlink terminals, labeling such practices illegal and threatening fines.
Despite these challenges, Starlink continues to expand its footprint across Africa, aiming to provide high-speed internet to underserved communities across the continent.
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