Tinaye Agere
Online Reporter
The sale or distribution of Starlink user terminals without proper licensing and clearance is illegal and an offence punishable by law, the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) has said.
The warning comes after POTRAZ licensed Starlink Zimbabwe (Pvt) Ltd on September 6, 2024, authorising the company to provide internet services throughout Zimbabwe using its Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Satellite Constellation.
In a statement, POTRAZ said any agencies, dealers, or internet service providers (ISPs) engaging with Starlink must obtain clearance from the regulatory body.
“This condition applies to both existing and prospective ISPs and Network Operators.
“The sale or distribution of Starlink user terminals without appropriate licensing and clearance is, therefore, an offence punishable by law,” reads part of the communique.
POTRAZ says the introduction of Starlink’s LEO technology will enhance broadband connectivity in Zimbabwe.
“Meanwhile, POTRAZ is convinced that the addition of the LEO Technology layer onto the Zimbabwean ecosystem of network technologies would enhance ubiquitous and meaningful broadband connectivity throughout Zimbabwe.
“Connecting the unconnected and bridging the digital divide remain key priorities for Zimbabwe, as we journey towards vision 2030”
Online Reporter