Starlink has today announced that it’s finally available in Kenya. Users who had earlier on preordered for the internet service received emails to confirm their order. To make your order, head over to the official Starlink website. It’s important to note that your order must be completed within the first 60 minutes, failure to do so, you’ll be redirected to the main landing page.
What is Starlink?
Starlink, the brainchild of SpaceX, is a visionary satellite internet constellation project with a mission to bring global, high-speed internet coverage to underserved and remote areas. Thousands of small satellites orbiting in low Earth orbit (LEO) form a vast network, and the goal is to deploy tens of thousands more in the future.
Starlink is now available in Kenya 🛰️🇰🇪 → https://t.co/6CoOHINioP pic.twitter.com/NlfDryZ8mA
— Starlink (@Starlink) July 18, 2023
Users on the ground connect to the internet through user terminals, commonly known as satellite dishes, which automatically align with passing satellites, ensuring a seamless and stable internet connection. One of Starlink’s key advantages is its ability to deliver high-speed internet with low latency, making it ideal for various online activities, including video streaming, online gaming, and remote work, even in rural or remote regions with limited traditional internet infrastructure.
How Much Will Starlink Cost in Kenya?
In order to get Starlink, you’ll have to pay the following:
- Hardware: Ksh 89,000
- Shipping and handling: Ksh 3,100
- Monthly subscription: Ksh 6,500
The total cost for the initial set up comes to Ksh 92,000, which in my opinion is quite steep. However, the monthly subscription is quite fair considering the fact that Starlink promises speeds of up to 200Mbps.
Starlink is already available for pre-order in Kenya, and it is expected to start shipping in the coming weeks. The Standard hardware kit is the default equipment for the Standard/Residential plan, as well as Mobile/Roam. You will get the following items in the Standard hardware kit:
- Starlink Antenna/Dish
- Mounting Base
- Wi-Fi Router
- 50 ft. Starlink Cable
- AC Power Cable
- Stickers/Documentation
Karibu Connect: Resellers of Starlink in Kenya
Karibu Connect, a leading internet connectivity solutions provider in East Africa, has been appointed as the first authorized reseller of Starlink in Kenya. This momentous partnership marks a significant step in the company’s mission to eliminate the digital divide and enhance connectivity infrastructure across the country.
John Thuo, CEO of Karibu Connect, spoke on the significance of this collaboration for Kenya, stating, “Our partnership with Starlink is a substantial progression in our mission to deliver affordable, high-quality internet access to all corners of Kenya. The deployment of Starlink’s groundbreaking technology will revolutionize how rural Kenya engages with the global community, fostering societal progress and driving economic growth.”
The deployment of Starlink in Kenya is set to revolutionize how rural Kenya engages with the global community. Karibu Connect’s partnership with Starlink holds the promise of driving societal progress and economic growth by providing affordable, high-quality internet access to every corner of the country.
Starlink vs. Safaricom
As Starlink enters the Kenyan market, it faces competition from Safaricom, which plans to launch satellite internet services through a partnership with AST SpaceMobile, a rival of Starlink. The goal is to disrupt traditional telecom services and improve coverage in underserved areas. Safaricom, other Vodafone affiliates, and AST SpaceMobile will share the revenue generated from the services equally, marking the creation of a space-based mobile broadband network accessible directly by standard mobile phones.
A Bright Future for Internet Access in Kenya
With both Starlink and Safaricom vying to expand internet services across the nation, Kenyan consumers will benefit from the competition. As 5G, Fiber, and Satellite technologies compete, we can expect improved connectivity and, potentially, better pricing for internet services. Kenya’s digital landscape is evolving, and with the government’s support, the possibilities for a well-connected and thriving nation are limitless.
Will you be getting Starlink? Do let us know in the comments section.
