Starlink Struggles in Kenya, Casting Doubt on SA Launch

JOHANNESBURG — 17 October 2023

Elon Musk’s satellite internet service Starlink has lost Kenyan subscribers due to high costs and connectivity problems, raising questions about its prospects in South Africa where regulatory hurdles remain unresolved.

Kenya’s communications authority reported subscriber losses in Q1 2025 as users switched back to local internet providers they considered better value (Communications Authority of Kenya).

Starlink’s service reportedly costs far more than Kenyan ISPs, delivers slower speeds than promised, and suffers frequent disconnections (unverified). Many had hoped it would solve connectivity gaps in remote areas.

In South Africa, Starlink’s launch is blocked by ICASA’s rule requiring 30% black South African ownership – a condition Musk has repeatedly failed to meet (regulatory filings).

Some South Africans are importing Starlink kits and using expensive global roaming subscriptions to access the service illegally (source not provided). This grey market highlights consumer demand despite the regulatory barrier.

Industry analysts note South Africa’s market may prove tougher than Kenya’s due to its rapidly expanding fibre networks and multiple competing providers (market analysis).

For Starlink to succeed here, it must compete on both price and reliability in areas already served by fibre — not just remote locations (industry experts).