Zimbabwe grants Starlink licences for lower fees compared to local operators

Harare – Zimbabwe has granted Starlink two licences to provide internet services nationwide, with a total licensing fee of US$575,000, significantly lower than what local mobile operators have paid in the past.

The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ), on September 6, 2024, issued two licences to Starlink, allowing the company to provide internet services throughout the country using its Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation.

The licences authorise Starlink to offer network services and internet services nationwide. Starlink plans to partner with local agencies, network operators, and internet service providers (ISPs) to distribute user terminals and provide managed end-user services.

The licences, which are valid for 20 years, will allow Starlink to provide internet services in Zimbabwe.

The licensing fee consists of US$525,000 for a Network Services licence and US$50,000 for an ISP National License. Additionally, Starlink will be required to pay 3.5% of its gross turnover plus VAT.

The license fees for Starlink are lower compared to what local mobile operators have paid in the past. In 2013, Econet Zimbabwe paid US$85 million upfront and owed US$60 million, which was later settled as a debt, for a 20-year license.

Starlink’s entry into the Zimbabwean market is expected to increase competition in the telecommunications sector.

Minister of ICT, Tatenda Mavetera, has welcomed Starlink’s entry, stating that it aligns with the government’s vision of a digitally connected Zimbabwe.

“Thank you, our President, Dr. Emmerson Mnangagwa, for allowing Starlink to operate in Zimbabwe. This technology will add impetus to your vision of a digitally connected Zimbabwe, especially reaching to the underserved and marginalised people through the use of LEO satellites,” she said.

In a statement, POTRAZ Director General, Gift Machengete, said, “Meanwhile, POTRAZ is convinced that the addition of the LEO Technology layer onto the Zimbabwean ecosystem of Network Technologies would enhance ubiquitous and meaningful broadband connectivity throughout Zimbabwe.

“Connecting the unconnected and bridging the digital divide remain key priorities for Zimbabwe, as we journey towards vision 2030,” Machengete added.