(Nairobi) – Safaricom, Kenya’s largest telecommunications provider, has welcomed satellite internet providers like Starlink to the market, viewing them as partners rather than competitors in efforts to expand internet access, especially in underserved areas. The company’s CEO, Peter Ndegwa, emphasized that Safaricom’s fixed networks remain unmatched in urban areas, though he sees satellite internet as a valuable addition for rural regions.
In an interview with The Kenyan Wall Street, Ndegwa explained that Kenya’s existing Internet Service Providers (ISPs) have achieved significant progress in connecting urban areas. He noted that satellite internet services, such as those from Starlink, could serve as “complementary” solutions rather than replacements, filling in connectivity gaps in areas where traditional broadband is unavailable.
Ndegwa also expressed openness to potential partnerships with satellite internet companies, including Starlink. “Satellite internet complements what fixed networks provide. We believe it will complement what we provide as an industry. In other countries, what they are asking satellite companies to do is to make sure that the gaps that still exist in rural and remote areas are filled,” he explained.
As part of a broader strategy to embrace satellite internet, Safaricom is drawing on experience from Vodafone, its parent company, which recently partnered with AST SpaceMobile, a satellite network provider. Vodafone selected Safaricom to participate in initial satellite communications trials, a decision that underscores Safaricom’s willingness to support satellite solutions within the African market.
“We don’t necessarily see satellite internet as competition,” Ndegwa said, adding, “as long as we serve customers and deliver what they want, that is good for the country.” This perspective aligns with Safaricom’s ongoing commitment to providing reliable fixed internet in cities while supporting alternative technologies for areas where infrastructure is limited.
| Provider | Service Type | Focus Area | Recent Actions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safaricom | Fixed Broadband | Urban, Peri-Urban Areas | Boosted internet speeds across packages to remain competitive |
| Starlink | Satellite Internet | Rural, Remote Areas | Launched rental plan, introduced affordable mini kits |
The arrival of Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, has created considerable interest in Kenya. Starlink has signed up more than 8,000 subscribers in its first year, as Kenyans explore alternatives to local ISPs. Starlink’s popularity grew rapidly after it introduced an affordable mini kit and a flexible rental plan for its equipment, adding new momentum to the competitive landscape of Kenya’s internet market.
In response to Starlink’s rising influence, Safaricom recently increased its internet speeds across various packages, aiming to strengthen its appeal in the urban and peri-urban markets.
Despite its progress, Starlink has paused new residential and roaming subscriptions in major African cities, including urban Kenya, due to a capacity strain on its network. Musk assured subscribers that Starlink is actively increasing bandwidth to meet the rising demand in these regions.
Satellite internet, while slower than traditional fiber in urban areas, offers a reliable solution for remote locations where infrastructure for fixed networks is challenging to establish. Safaricom and Starlink’s alignment in bridging the digital divide could mark a significant step forward in making internet access widely available across Kenya.