Starlink, the satellite internet service from SpaceX, is now live in Zimbabwe . This has been a highly anticipated event, with many Zimbabweans excited to finally have access to the service. Just days after neighboring Botswana went live, Zimbabwe was added to the Starlink coverage map.
Starlink users in the country can expect download speeds of up to 200Mbps, offering a much-needed boost in internet quality. This comes at a time when local providers are starting to feel the pressure to compete with the new, faster option.
The wait for Starlink’s launch in Zimbabwe started on September 1, but the service officially became available a week later. Now that it’s live, detailed pricing for the service and equipment has been shared.
Starlink Pricing in Zimbabwe
Standard Kit: US$350
This is the basic setup for personal use, allowing users to connect at home. However, it’s unclear if Starlink will be providing the latest version of their equipment.
Monthly Service Fee: US$50
The US$50 monthly fee is likely for the Residential package, which covers internet use within a specific area, typically within a 3-5 km radius of the user’s home.
Shipping Fee: US$23
Starlink will ship the equipment directly to users’ homes for a $23 fee. In other African countries like Zambia, Starlink has used DHL for deliveries, but there is no confirmation yet about the delivery partner for Zimbabwe.
Deposit: US$50
To reserve a Starlink kit, users will need to pay a $50 deposit upfront, with the balance due before receiving the equipment.
Additional Features
Starlink is also showing a Mini Kit on its website, priced at $200, though it isn’t available yet. This could be a more affordable option for users in the future.
All pricing for Starlink in Zimbabwe is listed in US dollars, which provides some protection against currency fluctuations. This is similar to what Starlink has done in other African countries, avoiding potential issues with local currency instability.
Capacity Limits
Starlink has mentioned that some areas might face capacity limits, meaning the service could be delayed until infrastructure improvements are made. In such cases, users won’t receive their equipment until their area is ready.
For those already using Starlink in other countries, there are ways to transfer the subscription to the Residential package available in Zimbabwe.
Overall, Starlink’s launch is set to change the internet landscape in Zimbabwe, offering faster speeds and better accessibility for both individuals and businesses.
