Starlink in Zimbabwe: A Spark for Digital Transformation
The recent approval of Starlink by the Government of Zimbabwe is set to revolutionize the country’s digital landscape (The Herald, 2024). This innovative satellite internet technology from SpaceX promises to significantly enhance internet penetration and affordability across Zimbabwe. After years of stagnation, the nation now has a chance to rebound in terms of digital connectivity. The high cost of broadband internet has been a major barrier for both rural and urban communities. With Starlink, these barriers are set to diminish, potentially bridging the digital divide and fostering greater connectivity throughout the nation.
Starlink’s extensive reach surpasses that of traditional internet infrastructure, offering the possibility of bringing online access to previously unconnected areas. As of early 2023, Zimbabwe had 5.74 million internet users, representing only 34.8 percent of the population. This means a significant 65.2 percent of the population remains offline, particularly in rural areas where 68 percent of the population resides (World Bank Open Data, n.d.). ITU Datahub (n.d.) further indicates that Zimbabwe scores lower in internet penetration than Africa (37.1% in 2023) and Least Developed Countries (35.4% in 2023). The Starlink satellite-based internet provision can help boost Zimbabwe’s internet penetration, thereby mitigating existing disparities, enabling rural communities to access online resources, businesses to connect with new markets, and individuals to enjoy the benefits of online communication.

Figure 1: ITU’s Forecast for Zimbabwe’s Internet Penetration
The writer of this article is confident that the strategic move by the leadership of the Government of Zimbabwe will compel the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to revise its official prediction for 2029 upwards, to a much higher rating than the current 56.46% (Statista, 2024). One should not forget that Zimbabwe was a pioneer adopter of computers on the continent in early 1961 (ABNT, 2024) and has the sixth-highest adult literacy rate, with 90% of people aged 15 and above in 2022 (World Bank Open Data, 2023).
Initial availability of Starlink might be concentrated in certain areas, predominantly in urban and semi-urban regions. However, given Starlink’s user-centric approach and expected affordability, it can empower individuals across the country. With targeted capacity-enhancing programs and community initiatives, it has the potential to bridge the digital gap, ensuring that every Zimbabwean can harness the power of technology.
Affordability is crucial for Starlink’s success. Early pricing details are still emerging, but collaboration between Starlink and the government could pave the way for accessible subscription plans. Potential strategies include government subsidies for rural communities or innovative financing options to promote inclusive digital growth, not just for a select few.
Security concerns are valid and must be carefully navigated. The widespread internet access could potentially increase citizens’ and institutions’ vulnerability to various cyberthreats. Effective regulatory laws and instruments must be enacted to mitigate potential cybersecurity issues that can adversely affect the country’s socioeconomic and cultural values.
The arrival of Starlink also acts as a catalyst for a more competitive and dynamic telecommunications market in Zimbabwe. The country had 14.08 million cellular mobile connections at the start of 2023, equivalent to 85.4 percent of the total population. Nevertheless, Zimbabwe has been one of the most expensive countries for internet access. Statista (2024) reported Zimbabwe as the most expensive country in the world for mobile data, with 1 gigabyte costing an average of 43.75 U.S. dollars, and the third most expensive for fixed broadband internet (Sengere, 2023). This is likely to change soon. Existing ISPs will likely be compelled to enhance their services and cut pricing to stay competitive. This, in turn, benefits consumers by offering a wider range of choices and potentially driving down prices. Competitive data packages from Starlink could influence mobile data prices and encourage telecom operators to develop innovative value-added services (VAS) to retain customers.
The introduction of Starlink is also expected to have a significant impact on internet speeds. As of early 2023, the median mobile internet connection speed in Zimbabwe was 10.88 Mbps, and the median fixed internet connection speed was 8.52 Mbps. By offering faster and more reliable internet services, Starlink could help improve these speeds, thus enhancing the overall internet experience for Zimbabweans.
Starlink’s entry into Zimbabwe marks a promising chapter in the country’s digital journey. With a focus on affordability, accessibility, and responsible practices, Starlink has the potential to bridge the digital divide, empower individuals, and stimulate a thriving telecommunications market. By embracing collaboration and innovation, Zimbabwe can leverage Starlink’s capabilities to unlock a future brimming with digital possibilities.
References
- ABNT (2024). Africa and the first computers: Left behind? No!, ABNT.com: Empowering Digital Transformation in Africa. Available at: https://abnt.com/?p=138 (Accessed: 27 May 2024).
- ITU Datahub (no date). Africa: Individuals using the Internet*, Data Explorer – ITU Datahub. Available at: https://datahub.itu.int/data/?e=1&i=11624 (Accessed: 27 May 2024).
- Kemp, S. (2023).Digital 2023: Zimbabwe – DataReportal – Global Digital Insights*, DataReportal. Available at: https://datareportal.com/reports/digital-2023-zimbabwe (Accessed: 27 May 2024).
- Sengere, L. (2023). Zimbabwe has 3rd most expensive fixed internet in the world says UK report, but is it?*, Techzim. Available at: https://www.techzim.co.zw/2023/03/zim-has-3rd-most-expensive-fixed-internet-in-the-world-uk-report-is-it-though/ (Accessed: 27 May 2024).
- Statista (2024). Digital & Connectivity Indicators – Zimbabwe: Forecast*, Statista. Available at: https://www.statista.com/outlook/co/digital-connectivity-indicators/zimbabwe#internet (Accessed: 27 May 2024).
- The Herald (2024). Government approves licensing of Starlink in Zimbabwe*, The Herald. Available at: https://www.herald.co.zw/govt-approves-licensing-of-starlink-in-zimbabwe/ (Accessed: 27 May 2024).
- World Bank Open Data (2023). Literacy rate, adult total (% of people ages 15 and above) – Zimbabwe*, World Bank Open Data. Available at: https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SE.ADT.LITR.ZS?locations=VN%2F1000-ZW (Accessed: 27 May 2024).
- World Bank Open Data (no date). Rural population (% of total population) – Zimbabwe*, World Bank Open Data. Available at: https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SP.RUR.TOTL.ZS?locations=ZW (Accessed: 27 May 2024).
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