Starlink Launches in Zimbabwe at $350

Elon Musk’s Starlink has officially launched its satellite internet service in Zimbabwe, three months after securing an operating license in the Southern African nation.

The company will provide its services through a government-approved local partner, IMC Communications.

According to Starlink’s website, the hardware will cost $350 with a $50 monthly subscription, while the Starlink mini is available for $200 with a $30 subscription.

Unlike in other African countries where Starlink offers local currency pricing, customers in Zimbabwe will be charged in US dollars.

Starlink’s Expansion in Africa

Starlink’s launch in Zimbabwe is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to expand its services across Africa, despite facing regulatory challenges in some countries.

In August 2024, Starlink launched in Botswana, becoming the sixth country in southern Africa to offer the service.

Regulatory Hurdles and Approval Process

In September 2023, Zimbabwe’s telecommunications regulator, the Postal & Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ), announced that Starlink had applied for a license.

The regulator later cracked down on unregistered users who were smuggling Starlink devices from neighboring Zambia, warning them that they were breaking the law.

In October 2023, some Zimbabwean legislators argued that Starlink’s operating license should be rejected due to allegations that Musk’s other company, X, was being used to disparage the country’s leadership, including President Emerson Mnangagwa.

However, in May 2024, President Mnangagwa announced that the telco regulator had approved the license, and IMC Communications was appointed as the official sole and exclusive reseller.

Improved Internet Access for Zimbabweans

The launch of Starlink in Zimbabwe is expected to significantly improve internet access for citizens, particularly in rural areas where traditional terrestrial infrastructure has been challenging to deploy.

The high-speed satellite internet service will provide a reliable alternative to existing options, potentially boosting economic growth and social development in the country.

Pricing and Affordability

While the pricing of Starlink’s services in Zimbabwe may be a concern for some, the company’s commitment to providing high-quality internet access is evident.

The $350 hardware cost and $50 monthly subscription fee may be out of reach for many Zimbabweans, but the service could still be attractive to businesses, organizations, and individuals who prioritize reliable and fast internet connectivity.

Conclusion

Starlink’s launch in Zimbabwe marks a significant milestone in the company’s expansion into Africa.

Despite facing regulatory challenges, the company has managed to secure an operating license and partner with a local provider to offer its services to Zimbabwean citizens.

As Starlink continues to grow its presence in the region, it will be interesting to see how it impacts the internet landscape and contributes to the development of Zimbabwe’s digital infrastructure.

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