Starlink, a satellite internet provider, has officially launched its operations in Kenya. The company has authorized Karibu Connect, a local internet connectivity solutions provider, as its first reseller in the country. This partnership aims to deliver affordable, high-quality internet access to rural areas of Kenya, benefiting various sectors such as small businesses, telecommunications, education, and more.

To acquire and set up Starlink in Kenya, the cost includes a monthly subscription of approximately KES6,500 ($45.90), hardware for KES89,000 ($628.53), and shipping for KES3100 ($21.89), totaling around KES92,100 ($650.42).

Just before Starlink's launch in Kenya, Safaricom, a leading East African telecom company, announced its plans to compete with Starlink by launching its own satellite internet service. Safaricom is partnering with US-based AST SpaceMobile for this venture, and Vodafone Group Plc, Safaricom's parent company, is an investor in AST SpaceMobile. The collaboration aims to provide ubiquitous communications to 4G devices across Africa, with a revenue-sharing agreement split equally between Safaricom and AST SpaceMobile. Both parties will maintain mutual exclusivity in their respective markets.

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