SpaceX’s satellite internet service, Starlink, is rapidly expanding across Africa, launching first in Nigeria. However, it looks like Starlink has chosen Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, for its first physical office on the continent.
Starlink and parent company SpaceX posted a job listing for a Global Licensing Activation Manager based in Nairobi to enable Starlink’s growth in sub-Saharan Africa.
Starlink to Base First African Office in Nairobi, Kenya
SpaceX posted a job vacancy for a Global Licensing Activation Manager, sub-Saharan Africa to be based in Nairobi, Kenya.
The manager will enable Starlink to become licensed as an internet service provider in multiple African countries. According to the listing, “The role will be based in Nairobi, Kenya, reporting to the team located at our MacGregor, TX location.”
The move signals Starlink’s commitment to expanding access to satellite internet across sub-Saharan Africa. As a hub for business and technology in East Africa, Kenya provides an ideal location for Starlink’s regional office.
Starlink Launched Service in Kenya in July 2023
Starlink officially launched its satellite internet service in Kenya in July 2023. It appointed local ISP Karibu Connect as its first authorized reseller in the country. Karibu Connect helps Kenyans purchase and install Starlink’s dish antennas and terminals.
However, Kenya is among the African countries charged the highest rates for Starlink service. For Kenyan home users, hardware costs Ksh 89,000 plus a Ksh 3,100 shipping fee. The monthly subscription fee is Ksh 6,500.
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
Partnership With Jumia to Offer Service Across Africa
To accelerate delivery of its satellite antenna kits and terminals, Starlink has also partnered with African e-commerce leader Jumia. Jumia will offer the Starlink hardware in select African markets, starting with Nigeria.
The partnership leverages Jumia’s pan-African logistics network. It helps Starlink efficiently reach more Africans seeking reliable, high-performance satellite broadband.
Rival AST SpaceMobile Also Expanding in Africa Via Partners
Despite Starlink’s strong momentum, rival satellite broadband provider AST SpaceMobile has secured its own deal in Kenya.
The company has an agreement with Safaricom, Kenya’s biggest telecom operator and the ultimate parent firm of European conglomerate Vodafone Group. Safaricom now plans to offer AST SpaceMobile’s satellite internet service locally to compete with Starlink.
As Starlink brings its first African office to Nairobi, it will need to contend with upstart rivals, high service costs, and demand for internet that outpaces supply across the continent. Yet Africa remains Starlink’s greatest global opportunity for growth and impact.
