Staff Reporter
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has approved the licensing of Starlink satellite Internet Services by the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ).
This move is set to enhance the digital economy and to ensure universal access to high-speed internet, in line with the vision 2030’s focus on innovation, science, and technology.
Starlink, which is owned by prominent multi-billionaire, Elon Musk, operates low-orbit satellites that deliver broadband-level internet access, surpassing the capabilities of traditional geostationary satellites.
Information Science Expert, Martin Mudhuva praised the move stating that Starlink will bring high speed internet services and an affordable alternative.
"Starlink will bring high-speed internet services and a cheaper and more affordable alternative, ensuring that remote areas where cell towers are hard to service and fibre optic cable has not reached, will have greater access and coverage,” said Mudhuva.
Chegutu West legislator, Shackmore Timburwa welcomed the licensing of Starlink and emphasised its potential to connect even to the most remote areas.
"Starlink covers the whole world, whether one is in a remote area, middle of the ocean or the sky, its internet is available. So for Zimbabwe, no place and no person will be left behind on internet connection," Timburwa added.
Moreover, the advantages of Starlink extend beyond accessibility, as the technology is inherently resilient to natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, and cyclones. Unlike traditional infrastructure that often suffer from prolonged outages during emergencies; Starlink's satellite-based network remains operational, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity when it's needed most. Repairing damaged cables is not only expensive but also time-consuming. However, Starlink internet does not suffer any internet outage due to natural disasters.
Meanwhile, Econet has entered into a partnership agreement with global satellite provider Eutelsat OneWeb, signalling the emergence of healthy competition in the satellite internet market. This partnership is poised to further expand internet connectivity options for Zimbabweans, offering alternative solutions to meet diverse needs.
As Zimbabwe embraces these advancements in satellite technology, stakeholders are optimistic about the transformative impact on education, commerce, healthcare, and emergency response.
Meanwhile, with the Government's proactive approach and partnerships with industry leaders, Zimbabwe is poised to accelerate its journey towards a digitally inclusive future.
Top of Form
