Satellite internet service provider Starlink has introduced a kit rental option in Kenya.
The satellite division of billionaire Elon Musk’s SpaceX is launching more affordable service plans to compete with the long-standing oligopoly of local internet providers Safaricom and Airtel.
Starlink’s plan provides 50 gigabytes (GB) at a price of Ksh1,300 ($10.16) monthly, which is less expensive than Airtel’s Ksh3,000 ($23.44) and Safaricom’s Ksh2,500 ($19.53) (45GB) packages.
Safaricom has reportedly contacted The Communications Authority of Kenya to regulate the entry of Starlink satellite internet in the country.
Kenyans on X, formerly Twitter (another Musk product), reacted to the news, sharing their jubilation at a new competitor in the market bound to disrupt the kinked demand for data services in Kenya.
“Starlink giving us value for our money and the other network that thought they had it all figured are weeping to the court. lol,” Lord Dave, commented on X.
“I strongly favour Starlink over Safarciom for my internet needs. Starlink’s advanced satellite technology ensures a stable connection without the limitation of terrestrial infrastructure. This is particularly important in areas where Safricom’s network might be inconsistent,” X user Samwel Wekesa, shared.
“Safaricom you found Celtel conquered them now its your time to pack and go. No to Monopoly,” another user on X chimed in on the Starlink vs Safaricom debate.
Customers are required to make a one-time payment of Ksh2,700 for activation. One will then pay a monthly hardware rental fee of Ksh 1,950, while the service plans start at Ksh1,300 monthly.
The company says the rental option gives customers the same internet speeds of up to 200Mbps.
Starlink is also launching its Direct to Cell service, allowing you to use your phone and existing SIM card to connect directly to Starlink satellites.
This ensures automatic internet access even in areas where local network might be unavailable.
Since entering the Kenyan market in July 2023, Starlink has been progressively offering competitively priced internet packages with improved speeds.
However, the cost of its hardware has been a deterrent for many potential consumers.
Earlier this year, the company announced an initiative to lower the hardware costs to as low as Ksh39,500.
Subsequently, last month, a further reduction was implemented, with the kit being offered at a price of Ksh29,000.
Starlink’s new promotion broken down:
— Rent a Starlink kit for Ksh1,950 per month
— Choose service plans starting at Ksh1,300 per month for 50GB
— Pay a Ksh2,700 activation fee
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