In just one year since its launch in July 2023, Starlink has risen to become Kenya’s tenth-largest Internet Service Provider (ISP), amassing over 8,000 subscribers by June 2024. Data from the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) highlights Starlink’s swift growth, attributing it to strong demand for internet access in underserved regions and the platform’s ability to bypass the extensive infrastructure requirements associated with fiber networks.
The rise of satellite internet in Kenya has been meteoric. Satellite subscriptions, which stood at just 405 users before Starlink’s arrival, surged to 8,324 by mid-2024. This growth reflects a broader shift in customer preference toward fast and reliable broadband in areas where traditional providers struggle to reach. Starlink’s offering is attractive for remote communities, with speeds between 100 Mbps to 200 Mbps offered at competitive prices—KES 1,300 ($10) for data bundles and KES 4,000 ($31) for residential packages. In comparison, market leader Safaricom charges about KES 12,500 ($97) for its 500 Mbps bundle, underscoring the disruptive nature of Starlink’s pricing model.
Despite its smaller subscriber base compared to Safaricom and Jamii Telecommunications—545,000 and 360,000 users respectively—Starlink’s growth signals a shift in Kenya’s broadband market. However, its entry has sparked pushback from incumbents like Safaricom. The telecom giant has petitioned the Communications Authority to introduce stricter licensing requirements for satellite providers, citing concerns over regulatory oversight and competition. Additionally, Safaricom has ramped up efforts to retain customers by upgrading fiber speeds, doubling the 40 Mbps tier to 80 Mbps and introducing 1 Gbps speeds for KES 20,000 ($155) to compete with Starlink’s offerings.
Notably, President William Ruto has expressed support for Starlink’s presence in Kenya, emphasizing that increased competition aligns with the government’s goal of deepening internet penetration. Meanwhile, Safaricom remains open to exploring partnerships with satellite providers, hinting at potential collaboration with Starlink to leverage its vast distribution network for mutual benefit.
As Kenya’s broadband landscape continues to evolve, Starlink’s growth reflects a broader trend of technological disruption, challenging long-established players to adapt to a more competitive environment. With favorable government backing and increasing public demand, Starlink’s entry could mark the beginning of a new era for internet connectivity in Kenya, particularly in areas that were previously beyond reach for traditional ISPs.