Starlink, the satellite internet service provider owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has made significant strides in the Kenyan market since its official launch in July 2023.
The company’s innovative approach to providing high-speed internet access, particularly in areas underserved by traditional providers, has led to a substantial increase in user adoption.
According to a report from the Communications Authority of Kenya, the number of satellite internet users in the country saw a remarkable surge. From a modest 1,354 users in the quarter ending September 2023, the figure skyrocketed to 2,933 by the end of December.
Also Read: SpaceX doubles Starlink roaming prices, Kenyans to pay KES 14,000 a month
However, despite its popularity, Starlink faced a significant hurdle in the form of high equipment costs, which proved prohibitive for many potential customers.
In response, the company has implemented a series of strategic price reductions and introduced more affordable packages tailored specifically to the Kenyan market.
Initially priced at KES 89,000, the Starlink kit saw its cost slashed to KES 45,000. A limited-time offer further reduced the price to an attractive KES 30,000, making the service more accessible to a broader range of consumers.
New Rental Option Introduced
In its latest move to capture a larger market share and address affordability concerns, Starlink has unveiled a new rental option for Kenyan customers. This new initiative represents a significant shift in how satellite internet services are offered in the country.
Under this new scheme, users can now rent the Starlink kit for a monthly fee of KES 1,950. This approach significantly lowers the barrier to entry for those interested in trying the service, as it eliminates the need for a large upfront investment in equipment.
How to Rent a Starlink Kit in Kenya
For those interested in taking advantage of this new rental option, the process is straightforward:
- Visit the official Starlink website to check availability and Kenya-specific details.
- Create a Starlink account to access rental options and services.
- Select the kit rental option from the platform.
- Pay the one-time activation fee of KES 2,700 (approximately $21).
- Choose between two service plans: a 50GB plan for KES 1,300 or an unlimited package for KES 6,500. Both plans offer speeds of up to 200 Mbps.
- After completing the order, you will receive your Starlink kit.
- Follow the provided setup instructions to start enjoying your satellite internet connection.
While the rental option opens up new possibilities for many Kenyans, some questions remain unanswered. It is currently unclear whether this arrangement includes a rent-to-own option, which would allow users to eventually own the kit outright.
Additionally, the process for returning the kit if a user decides to terminate the service has not been detailed. These uncertainties leave room for speculation about potential future developments in Starlink’s offerings.
Impact on the Kenyan Internet Landscape
Starlink’s presence in Kenya has not only attracted a growing user base but has also sparked a competitive response from established internet service providers (ISPs).
Companies like Safaricom, which boasted over 522,000 fixed data subscriptions as of March 2024, have been compelled to innovate and expand their offerings to retain and attract customers.
Safaricom, for instance, has begun offering 4G and 5G routers to appeal to customers outside its fibre network coverage. The company has also announced plans for its own satellite service, although the launch date remains uncertain.
Starlink’s Unique Appeal
The rapid growth of Starlink in Kenya can be attributed to its ability to serve customers who have been historically underserved by traditional ISPs, particularly in rural areas.
The company’s promise of providing broadband services beyond the reach of established providers has made it an attractive option for many Kenyans seeking reliable internet connectivity.
