Elon Musk’s Starlink was supposed to be a game-changer for internet access, with promises of being life-changing to those living in remote areas of the world. Many people across Africa were hopeful that it could help them overcome connectivity challenges presented by the limitations of terrestrial infrastructure.
However, following its roll-out in Kenya – one of Africa’s most dynamic digital economies – the initial excitement has waned. The East African nation’s communication authority reported that Starlink lost % of its subscribers in Q1 of 2025. Instead, these users are opting to revert to their local internet service providers (ISPs) as they find them to be better value for money.
Starlink’s Kenyan failure can serve as a cautionary tale to South African consumers. While many who live in rural areas (along with owners of safari lodges) see Musk’s technology as a beacon of hope. But the challenges presented by the reality of the country’s complex regulatory maze show a different reality.
Starlink’s reality check
Starlink’s dwindling subscription numbers in Kenya are not difficult to understand. The provider is far more expensive than local ISPs, often has low speeds (despite promising high ones), and subscribers are frequently left disconnected. Although it is unknown if South Africans will ever get to experience both the benefits and downfalls of Starlink.
Musk has tried unsuccessfully to get Starlink into South Africa. The biggest roadblock facing the ISP has been adherence to the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA)’s requirement that a minimum of 30% of Starlink’s ownership must be held by black South Africans.
As a way of getting around this obstacle, some South Africans are importing Starlink kits and using expensive global roaming subscriptions to gain access to the technology. This grey market showcases the eagerness of consumers to get Starlink and how it would be even more popular if it had an official, affordable rollout.
A tougher market awaits
While Kenya has proven itself to be a tough market for Starlink, South Africa could present even more challenges. The country boasts an ever-expanding fibre network hosted by multiple providers in a highly competitive environment.
It is highly likely that for Starlink to be truly successful in South Africa, Musk will need to think further than providing connectivity to remote areas. The ISP will need to compete with its peers in terms of both reliability and price in areas where fibre currently reigns supreme.
WOULD YOU CHOOSE STARLINK OVER FIBRE IF IT LAUNCHED IN SOUTH AFRICA?
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