daniel chigunwe
SpaceX Starlink internet service was officially launched in Zimbabwe in September 2024. In a short time, it has already managed to significantly impact the pricing of internet services in the country.
The cost of Starlink subscriber terminals in Zimbabwe starts at $200 for a mini kit. This includes unlimited internet access with speeds of over 100Mbps for $30 per month. Starlink has thus become Zimbabwe’s most profitable internet service provider, with its equipment selling out in Harare and surrounding areas in two months.
Starlink’s success in Zimbabwe
The country has long awaited the launch of broadband access via Starlink satellites. Until September 2024, some people in the government tried Starlink roaming through service providers in neighboring countries. But the cost was high: on average, Starlink kits cost $600, and the monthly fee for unlimited internet was $50.
Internet is a sought-after service in Zimbabwe. Especially given the locals’ love of computer and mobile games. According to statistics, a considerable number of young people use advice on how to choose a gaming smartphone before buying one, and they also select gaming computers carefully.
Due to the high prices set by Internet service providers (about $500 for unlimited), many residents bought monthly data packages from mobile MNOs. But even here the price tag was “biting”. In addition, the Internet of MNOs was unstable. All these factors triggered the popularity of Starlink immediately after its launch.
Zimbabwe is experiencing a crisis in electricity supply. According to ZimCyber-Security Technical Director – Sammy Tatenda Nyere, this affects internet service providers’ reliability. The problem is most acutely felt by users who use electricity to boost their networks.
The growing demand of local residents for stable fast internet connection is having an impact. This is especially affected by mobile games’ popularity and the iGaming sector’s growth. If you go to a search engine and study the output, you can find many popular international casinos. According to statistics, the best reviews have the 1xBet app. The reason is a lot of games and sports betting with good odds. To become a client of the casino, you need to download 1xbet app and install it on your phone. The casino offers mobile apps for Android and iOS gadgets. But all these apps require a quality internet connection, as disconnections can lead to loss of gameplay.
Nyerere noted that Starlink allows serving multiple users on a single terminal. This enables residents of houses on a particular street to share a single Starlink kit, splitting monthly payments equally.
Compulink, an information technology company, believes the launch of Starlink in Zimbabwe presents a great opportunity to improve internet connectivity in both urban and rural areas.
Online Reporter