Kenya's satellite internet usage skyrockets due to Starlink, witnessing a tenfold increase in users within a year, boosting internet access nationwide
Starlink, Elon Musk's satellite internet service, has made a significant impact in Kenya's broadband market since its introduction in July 2023. The service, which offers high speeds exceeding 100 megabits per second (Mbps), has been particularly appealing to customers outside the reach of conventional broadband providers like Safaricom and Telkom Kenya.
In a country where over 93% of Starlink's subscribers have opted for high-speed internet plans, the service has significantly boosted broadband adoption. This rapid growth has contributed to a significant boost in broadband adoption, with the number of Starlink subscribers in Kenya more than tenfolding since its introduction.
Starlink's popularity is partly due to its focus on areas that lack traditional broadband infrastructure. Residents in remote or "upcountry" areas have found the service to be a viable alternative, with many opting for Starlink over local providers offering slower speeds.
The sector for broadband services in Kenya is poised for further growth with the continued introduction of new technologies and services. Starlink's high-speed internet plans, with speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to 1 Gbps, are exclusive to the company in Kenya. The service is also popular with niche corporate clients who require more than what standard fiber or fixed broadband can offer.
Starlink is the latest major satellite service provider in Kenya, joining companies like Skynet and NTvsat. Notably, Safaricom, the largest telecommunications provider in Kenya, has announced its intention to launch a satellite service but has not done so yet.
As of March 2024, Starlink had 4,808 subscribers in Kenya. Compared to the 405 satellite internet users in Kenya in July 2023, this represents a significant increase in the adoption of satellite internet services.
In conclusion, Starlink's entry into the Kenyan market has brought about a shift in the broadband landscape. The service's focus on areas lacking traditional infrastructure and its high-speed offerings have made it an attractive option for many Kenyans. The continued growth of the broadband sector in Kenya is expected as more technologies and services are introduced.
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