MISA Zimbabwe welcomes Starlink’s entry into the digital telecommunications ecosystem in Zimbabwe, which is poised to usher in the deployment of high-speed, low-cost internet services in most parts of the country.
On 7 September 2024, it was announced and confirmed by Elon Musk, the founder of Starlink, that the high-speed, low-latency internet service had activated its signal and is now available in Zimbabwe.
This follows President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s announcement earlier this year, in May 2024, that the government had approved Starlink’s licensing in Zimbabwe. The President stated that one of the strategic pillars that anchor Zimbabwe’s developmental agenda under Vision 2030 is innovation, science and technology.
This is a positive development, and we congratulate the Government of Zimbabwe for licensing Starlink’s entry into the nation’s information space.
MISA Zimbabwe hopes that this development will provide internet access to rural and remote communities that conventional internet service providers have traditionally marginalised.
This will indeed be a game changer for connectivity in remote areas, as it will empower marginalised communities with the tools needed for education, healthcare, business, and personal development.
Zimbabweans have long complained of high-cost internet coupled with low speeds and poor connectivity services, hence MISA Zimbabwe’s #DataMustFall campaign over the years. The new player will thus provide competition in the Internet space for improved services that will go a long way in bridging the digital divide.
We envisage reductions in the country’s internet tariffs and improved services due to increased competition. This will lead to enhanced access to information by those who previously could not afford the high data prices.
With broader internet coverage, Zimbabweans are poised for improved access to a wealth of global information, educational resources, and e-learning opportunities. This will foster a more informed and educated populace, driving socio-economic development and innovation.
As Zimbabwe expands its digital infrastructure, this development will contribute towards global integration and strengthen its ties with the global community. Integration is vital for our competitiveness in the global market and for fostering international collaborations and partnerships.
Otherwise, the positive impact of this new development on the nation’s economic growth and global integration, if managed professionally, cannot be overemphasised.
MISA Zimbabwe Statement
