Safaricom, the Kenyan-based telecommunication giant has advised regulators to consider requiring satellite internet providers such as Elon Musk's Starlink to partner with local mobile network operators. The telecommunications giant is concerned about potential risks and impacts that might arise from granting independent licenses to these providers.
SpaceX's Starlink business operates in multiple African nations, but it has encountered difficulties registering in other countries due to regulatory issues. It made its debut in Kenya in July of last year.
In a letter, Safaricom politely asks the Communications Authority of Kenya to carefully consider the potential dangers of giving independent licenses to satellite service providers as well as any potential harm to Kenya. According to the corporation, a model like this would promote innovation while reducing any potential drawbacks.
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| The official letter from Safaricom. |
The development of satellite technology that can provide internet access to end users directly from space has attracted a lot of attention from around the world. Direct-to-Device technology presents an opportunity to improve coverage in formerly underserved locations because of economic or geographic limitations.
In line with this, Safaricom has partnered with Avellan Space Technology & Science (AST) to leverage its Space Mobile solution. AST will function as an infrastructure provider to Safaricom, rather than operating independently.
Safaricom’s stance comes in response to the growing influence of Starlink, a satellite internet service provider owned by SpaceX. Starlink has recently introduced rental services for its hardware kits in Kenya, marking a significant shift in its strategy to broaden its market reach. This move aims to lower entry barriers for customers by offering a rental option at KES 1,950 per month, as opposed to requiring a full purchase.
In addition, Starlink offers several service plans, with monthly prices starting at KES 1,300 for a 50GB plan and going up to KES 6,500 for an unlimited data plan. There's also a KES 2,700 one-time activation cost. This pricing system is intended to accommodate a wide range of needs and financial capacities, potentially improving high-speed internet access for people in various socioeconomic categories.
The introduction of Starlink's renting model has the potential to significantly alter Kenya's internet environment by increasing access to high-speed internet in underserved and rural areas. Still unknown, though, are whether or not rent-to-own options are part of the rental agreement and how customers can return the kits if they wish to cancel the service.
In the letter, Safaricom stressed how much money it had spent on obtaining radiofrequency and operating spectrum licenses, how dedicated it was to follow local laws, and how eager it was to support Kenya's socio-economic growth.