Telecommunications giant Safaricom has expressed openness to a partnership with satellite internet company Starlink, signaling a potential collaboration that could reshape Kenya’s internet landscape.
Acknowledging the disruptive presence of Starlink in the market, Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa highlighted the benefits of such a partnership, noting that Starlink’s competitive packages and fast internet speeds could complement Safaricom’s existing technology. Ndegwa emphasized the unique advantage of satellite technology in providing internet access to rural areas and regions where fibre-based services, typically offered by Safaricom and other local providers, cannot reach.
“The satellite technology is effective in providing internet to rural areas and other places that fibre-based technology, used by Safaricom and other local providers, cannot access,” Ndegwa stated.
Despite the potential partnership, Ndegwa also pointed out the significant impact of Safaricom’s existing internet services. He noted that the company’s 4G technology currently covers at least 95% of the country, while fibre optic connections have become increasingly popular among homes and multinational companies.
This shift towards a collaborative approach comes after Safaricom’s previous attempts to curb Starlink’s entry into the Kenyan market. Just a month ago, Safaricom had written to the Communications Authority (CA) of Kenya, urging them to reconsider granting licenses to satellite internet providers like Starlink.
In an effort to retain its subscribers, Safaricom recently announced enhanced speeds for its Home Fibre packages at no additional cost.
Meanwhile, Starlink continues to innovate, with the recent launch of ‘Starlink Mini’ on Friday, September 27. This portable device offers instant and fast internet access and is smaller than the standard Starlink kit, further positioning Starlink as a formidable player in the Kenyan market.