A satellite internet service owned by a prominent figure has been launched in Zimbabwe, following the acquisition of an operating license in the country. The service will be provided in partnership with a local company approved by the government called IMC Communications.
According to the service’s official website, customers in Zimbabwe will be charged in dollars for the hardware and subscription fees. The hardware is priced at $350 with a $50 monthly subscription, while a smaller version called Starlink mini is available for $200 with a $30 subscription.
This launch in Zimbabwe is part of the service’s expansion into African countries, with Botswana being the sixth country in southern Africa where it was introduced in August. Despite facing regulatory challenges, the service is making progress in the region.
In September 2023, the regulatory body in Zimbabwe announced that the satellite internet service had applied for a license. There were subsequent warnings issued against unauthorized use of the service in the country. In October of the same year, some lawmakers raised concerns about the service’s license approval due to alleged negative portrayals by another company associated with the owner.
In May 2024, the President of Zimbabwe confirmed the approval of the service’s license, with a local company designated as the exclusive reseller.