Kenyan consumers can now purchase the Starlink Mini, SpaceX’s compact satellite internet solution, for KES 27,000.
Designed for portability and ease of use, Starlink Mini promises to bring high-speed internet to even the most remote parts of Kenya.
With monthly service plans at KES 4,000, Starlink Mini offers an affordable option for those needing reliable internet access while on the move.
Starlink Mini Pricing and Plans in Kenya
Starlink Mini offers a range of service plans tailored to different user needs:
- KES 4,000 per month: A plan with deprioritized speeds during peak hours, suitable for general browsing and light usage.
- KES 6,500 per month: A premium plan providing priority speeds during peak hours for users requiring consistent, high-speed access.
- KES 1,300 per month: A 50GB data plan, ideal for users with moderate internet usage needs.
The Starlink Mini Kit, priced at KES 27,000, includes everything needed for a quick and easy setup, making it a competitive option in Kenya’s internet market.
Specifications of Starlink Mini
- Dimensions 16.92 x 13.14 x 3.11 inches (43 x 33.4 x 7.9 cm)
- Weight 3 pounds (1.36 kg)
- Max Download Speed Up to 100Mbps
- Applications Residential, Roam, Boats, Personal, Business
- Coverage Area 112 square meters (1,200 square feet)
- Power Consumption 20-40W
- Power Options Can be powered via USB C 100W power bank for off-grid use
- Operating Temperature -30°C to +50°C (-22°F to +122°F), meaning it’s capable of functioning in a variety of environmental conditions, making it ideal for Kenya’s diverse climates
- Wi-Fi Router Built-in, offering fast and reliable connectivity for up to 128 devices
- Water Resistance IP54-rated, ensuring durability in challenging outdoor environments
- Kit Components Includes satellite antenna, kickstand, pipe adapter, power supply, and USB-C cable for easy installation and portability
Starlink Mini is Perfect for Kenya’s Connectivity Challenges
Starlink Mini is particularly well-suited for Kenyan users living in rural or underserved areas. Starlink Mini taps into SpaceX’s vast satellite network, enabling internet access in regions where connectivity has traditionally been limited.
Whether it’s for professionals working remotely, travellers, or communities in hard-to-reach locations, Starlink Mini offers an efficient and portable solution to Kenya’s internet challenges.
Moreover, its low power consumption and compatibility with power banks allow users to stay connected even in areas with limited access to electricity.
This feature makes Starlink Mini a vital tool for off-grid areas where electricity supply is inconsistent or unavailable.
Challenges and Concerns
While Starlink Mini presents a promising solution, several challenges and concerns need to be addressed:
According to the telco, satellite internet providers may illegally provide services within Kenya’s territorial borders without obtaining the necessary licenses. This could lead to unfair competition and revenue loss for local mobile network operators.
Petition to allow Starlink
Kituo Cha Sheria has filed a petition to allow Starlink to operate in Kenya, arguing that it would provide affordable high-speed internet access to Kenyans.
Kituo Cha Sheria argues that Safaricom’s opposition is biased, as it is a competitor to Starlink. They also call for a study to determine the appropriate regulation for satellite internet providers.
The hearing for the case is scheduled for November 25.
Starlink’s presence in Kenya has been defended by President William Ruto who says it helps to improve their service quality standards.
“I have my CEO for Safaricom; sometimes he’s not very happy with me for bringing other characters like Elon Musk and others into space. I keep encouraging Peter (Ndengwa, CEO, Safaricom) that competition makes you keep ahead and he’s been doing pretty well, I must admit, he’s really upped his game,” said President William Ruto at the US-Kenya Business and Investment Roundtable in New York, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.
