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WE have been following the excitement over the entry of Starlink into the country very closely and we agree that providing high-speed internet access to underserved areas could lead to economic growth, educational advancements and improved healthcare services. 

Unfortunately, we also feel there is a need to address costs, regulatory challenges and the need for infrastructure to support satellite internet. Why is Wi-Fi expensive in Zimbabwe yet in public areas it can be accessed for free, in other countries? 

Cable.co.uk recently analysed ADSL and fibre packages from 219 countries and Zimbabwe was found to have one of the most expensive fixed internet costs in the world.

Starlink, the satellite internet constellation project developed by SpaceX that promises to revolutionise internet access in remote and underserved regions, is likely to positively impact Zimbabwe’s connectivity landscape.

With a largely rural population and limited infrastructure, many areas in Zimbabwe have struggled to access reliable and high-speed internet. Therefore, one of the most significant impacts of Starlink in Zimbabwe is its potential to bridge the digital divide. 

Traditional internet service providers often find it economically unviable to extend their services to remote and rural areas. With its low Earth orbit satellites, Starlink can provide high-speed internet access to even the most isolated communities. This could drastically improve educational opportunities, healthcare access and economic development in these regions.

Reliable internet access is a cornerstone of modern economic development. For Zimbabwe, Starlink could open up new avenues for business and entrepreneurship. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in rural areas can gain access to global markets, enabling them to compete on a larger scale. Additionally, improved connectivity could attract foreign investment, particularly in the tech and service sectors, fostering job creation and economic growth.

Education in Zimbabwe has been hampered by inadequate internet access, particularly in rural schools. Starlink’s high-speed internet could transform the educational landscape by providing students and teachers with access to online resources, virtual classrooms and digital learning tools. This will not only enhance the quality of education, but also ensure that students in remote areas have the same opportunities as their urban counterparts.

Telemedicine and remote healthcare services have become increasingly important, especially in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. Starlink’s connectivity could enable healthcare providers in Zimbabwe to offer telehealth services, conduct remote consultations and access global medical resources. This will be particularly beneficial for rural communities with limited access to healthcare facilities, improving overall health outcomes.

We, however, insist that realising these benefits will require addressing cost and regulatory challenges. With the right support and collaboration, Starlink could play a pivotal role in transforming Zimbabwe’s connectivity landscape and bridging the digital divide.