Online Reporter
Jacqueline Ntaka [email protected]
THE rapid growth of Starlink in Zimbabwe has quietly changed how the country connects to the internet. Many people know Starlink for its fast speeds, wide coverage, and lower prices.
However, while it has gained attention, another important story is happening at the same time — the steady growth of fibre internet. Instead of disappearing, fibre is adapting and improving. This competition between Starlink and fibre is now shaping how Zimbabweans work, communicate, and do business.
When Starlink entered Zimbabwe in late 2024, many people believed it would replace traditional internet providers. Its ability to provide high-speed internet without cables or towers made it very attractive, especially in rural areas where internet access has always been poor. Within a short time, Starlink grew very quickly, with data usage on its network rising sharply. This showed that many people were eager to try the new service.
However, fibre internet has not declined as some expected. In fact, it has continued to grow. Over the past five years, fibre subscriptions have doubled from around 43 000 in 2020 to more than 86 000 by the end of 2025.
Even after Starlink arrived, fibre providers continued to gain new customers. This shows that fibre is still a strong and important part of Zimbabwe’s internet system.
What is interesting is how people are now using the internet differently. While more people are signing up for fibre, some of the heaviest internet users — such as gamers, remote workers, and video streamers — are moving to Starlink.
These users need high speeds and large amounts of data, and Starlink seems to meet their needs. As a result, some fibre companies have seen a drop in the amount of data being used on their networks, even though they still have many customers.
Instead of giving up, fibre providers have changed their approach. The arrival of Starlink has forced them to become more competitive.
Many companies have lowered their prices, improved their speeds, and introduced unlimited data packages. Fibre also has its own strengths. It is usually more stable, has fewer interruptions, and works well in busy urban areas. Because of this, it remains a popular choice for businesses, offices, and homes in cities.
This competition has been good for consumers. Zimbabweans now have more choices when it comes to internet services. Prices are becoming more affordable, and quality is improving. More people are now able to access the internet, and this is helping many areas of life. Students can learn online, businesses can reach more customers, and people can communicate more easily.
The growth of both fibre and Starlink is very important for Zimbabwe’s future. Fibre provides strong and reliable internet in cities, supporting industries, banks, and institutions. On the other hand, Starlink is helping to bring internet access to rural areas where it was previously unavailable.
This means more people across the country can connect to the digital world.
Even though there are still challenges, such as the high cost of Starlink equipment, the overall impact is positive.
Both technologies are helping to reduce the gap between urban and rural areas.
In the end, fibre and Starlink are not enemies but partners in shaping Zimbabwe’s digital future. Fibre is becoming better and more affordable, while Starlink is expanding access. Together, they are building a stronger, more connected Zimbabwe.
*Jacqueline Ntaka is the CEO of Mviyo Technologies, a local tech company that provides custom software development, mobile applications and data analytics solutions. She can be contacted on [email protected]
