Harare – Zimbabweans can breathe a sigh of relief as Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, has begun restoring capacity in previously sold-out areas, bringing renewed hope for reliable and high-speed internet access.
After months of frustration and limited availability, residents in Bulawayo and towns surrounding Harare, including Macheke and Chegutu, can now place orders for the coveted Starlink kits. While Harare itself is still awaiting its turn, the promise of restored capacity is on the horizon.
Starlink’s initial launch in Zimbabwe in 2024 was met with overwhelming enthusiasm, as it offered a much-needed alternative to the slow speeds, high costs, and frequent outages that plague traditional internet service providers (ISPs). However, the surge in demand quickly outstripped supply, leading to widespread shortages and leaving many Zimbabweans unable to secure a Starlink connection.
The restoration of capacity in Bulawayo and surrounding areas marks a significant turning point, particularly for regions where traditional ISPs have struggled to deliver consistent and reliable service. Furthermore, previously restricted areas like Mvurwi and parts of Bulawayo are once again accepting new Starlink users.
One of the primary factors contributing to the initial congestion was the proliferation of informal resellers. These individuals and businesses capitalised on the high demand by purchasing multiple kits upon launch and reselling them at a premium to customers who faced challenges such as payment restrictions or a lack of online purchasing access. As Starlink’s network quickly reached capacity, the secondary market thrived on platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp.
The additional capacity is therefore good news for many. As availability increases, this reseller-driven scarcity is likely to ease, providing direct access to more Zimbabweans.
Beyond Zimbabwe, Starlink has also been expanding in neighbouring countries. Since mid-February, capacity has been opening up in Mozambique and Zambia, indicating that SpaceX is actively addressing network congestion across the region. The company has already restored capacity in neighbouring countries like Mozambique and Botswana. This expansion suggests a future where “sold out” becomes a thing of the past.
For those eager to ditch slow internet and embrace the high-speed connectivity offered by Starlink, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to order a kit in Zimbabwe:
- Visit the Starlink Website: Go to www.starlink.com.
- Check Availability: Enter your address to confirm that service is available in your specific area.
- Place Your Order: Once availability is confirmed, proceed with ordering your Starlink kit.
- Make Payment: Complete the payment process using a valid international payment method. An Ecocash virtual mastercard can also be used. Just load your Ecocash USD wallet, make sure you have at least US$5 extra for charges (eg, If you intend to pay $200 then make sure you load at least $205 to be on the safe side).
- Set Up and Enjoy: Upon arrival of your kit, follow the simple setup instructions and begin enjoying high-speed internet access.
It’s crucial to act swiftly, as demand remains high and kits could sell out quickly.
For residents of Harare and its surrounding areas, the wait is not over yet, but Starlink has assured that capacity will be restored soon, although a specific date has not been provided. The best course of action is to stay informed and be prepared to place your order as soon as the opportunity arises.
This development signifies a significant shift in the country’s digital connectivity, offering a glimmer of hope for improved internet access and a more connected future.
