Starlink, the satellite internet service from Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has officially launched in Zimbabwe, marking another significant step in its expansion across Africa. With an initial price of $350 for the hardware and a monthly service fee of $99, Starlink is positioning itself as a game-changer in the African internet landscape, particularly in countries like Zimbabwe where internet access remains a challenge.
Zimbabwe, like many parts of Africa, struggles with consistent and affordable internet access. In many rural and underserved areas, traditional broadband options are limited or non-existent. This is where Starlink comes in. Using a constellation of low-Earth orbit satellites, Starlink promises high-speed internet even in remote areas, bypassing the need for extensive infrastructure development.
By offering satellite-based internet, Starlink is providing a much-needed solution for Zimbabweans who have long dealt with slow, expensive, or unreliable internet connections. The company’s launch is expected to bring faster speeds and better connectivity to individuals, businesses, and educational institutions that have struggled with digital accessibility.
While the $350 hardware fee and $99 per month subscription may seem steep for many in Zimbabwe—where the average income is significantly lower than in developed nations—Starlink is targeting businesses, tech hubs, and more affluent individuals to initially gain traction. Over time, the hope is that as satellite technology evolves and expands, costs will decrease, making the service more accessible to a broader portion of the population.
Starlink’s arrival in Zimbabwe is part of its broader push into Africa. The company has already launched services in other countries such as Nigeria and Rwanda, and plans to continue expanding its footprint across the continent. With Starlink, countries in Africa could leapfrog traditional internet infrastructure challenges and move directly into the era of satellite-powered high-speed internet.
While the initial costs may limit widespread adoption at first, Starlink represents a significant step toward reducing Africa’s digital divide. If successful in Zimbabwe, it could pave the way for other countries to embrace satellite internet, helping to bring reliable, high-speed connectivity to millions more people across the continent.