Starlink, a subsidiary of Tesla creator Elon Musk's internet startup, will introduce internet service in Kenya this year.
The IT company announced that, subject to regulatory approval, it will enter the nation in the second quarter of 2023.
The launch of the company will put operators like Safaricom, Zuku, and other internet providers up against one another.
“Order now to reserve your Starlink. Starlink is targeting service in your area starting Q2 2023. Availability is subject to regulatory approval. Within each coverage area, orders are fulfilled on a first-come, first-served basis,” the company said.
The firm, which is targeting Kisumu, Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, among others, said prospective customers can order and deposit Kes 12,260 that is refundable.
While local firms such as Safaricom offer internet services through Wi-Fi, cellular networks and fibre cables, Musk’s firm offer internet services via satellites.
Apart from Kenya, the firm will also be launching in Tanzania, Zimbabwe, DRC, Malawi, Benin, and Morocco.
Others include Western Sahara, Mauritania, Togo, Angola, Somalia, as well as the Republic of Congo.
In 2024, it will be entering Uganda, Namibia, Botswana, Ghana, Liberia, Gambia, Egypt, Tunisia, among others.
