American internet service provider Starlink has officially launched its operations in Zimbabwe. This significant development follows the recent licensing approval by the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz). The introduction of Starlink’s services is expected to enhance the country’s digital infrastructure, providing a substantial boost to the digital economy and helping bridge the existing digital divide.
Starlink, known for its satellite-based internet services, offers high-speed internet with speeds ranging between 200 and 250 megabytes per second. This service is particularly advantageous in areas with limited or unreliable traditional internet infrastructure. Starlink’s monthly subscription cost is approximately US$100, making it a premium option for high-speed internet in Zimbabwe.
The arrival of Starlink is poised to make a significant impact on Zimbabwe’s digital landscape. With fast and reliable internet becoming increasingly crucial for business operations, education, and access to information, Starlink’s presence is expected to address several digital connectivity challenges faced by individuals and enterprises in the country.
The government’s approval and Potraz’s licensing of Starlink reflect a commitment to improving digital connectivity and supporting technological advancement. This move aligns with broader efforts to modernize the country’s telecommunications infrastructure and promote digital inclusion.
Starlink’s services are particularly timely given Zimbabwe’s ongoing challenges with internet access and speed. By providing high-speed internet in areas where traditional broadband services may be limited, Starlink aims to narrow the digital divide and offer more equitable access to digital resources and opportunities.
Starlink’s entry into the Zimbabwean market marks a significant step towards enhancing digital connectivity in the country. With its high-speed internet services, Starlink is set to support the growth of the digital economy, improve access to online services, and contribute to the overall development of Zimbabwe’s digital infrastructure.
In other news – President Mnangagwa returns home
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has returned to Zimbabwe from a state visit to China, where he attended the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit. The summit, held every three years, is a significant platform for strengthening economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and political ties between China and African nations.
FOCAC, established in 2000, focuses on enhancing trade, investment, infrastructure development, and capacity building between China and Africa. The summit underscores China’s commitment to fostering mutual growth and cooperation with African countries through various initiatives and partnerships. Read More