Elon Musk’s satellite internet Starlink is no longer accepting new subscriptions in Nairobi and its environs. This follows the high demands experienced in the area in the past few months after the company introduced an installation discount.
The company urged new subscribers to submit their email contacts for future communication on the availability of the service.
“Starlink residential is not available in your area. Enter your email below to be notified about future availability and product updates,” said Starlink.
According to the Starlink availability map, Nairobi and its environs, including Kiambu and Machakos, are whitelisted.
An area that is whitelisted means it is currently at capacity, and many people have subscribed.
How many Kenyans have subscribed to Starlink?
Starlink Internet entered the Kenyan market in July 2023, at the start of the fiscal year 2023/24.
Data from the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) showed that the satellite internet subscribers in the country grew to 8,063 as of June 30, 2024.
Starlink ranked among the top ten internet service providers in terms of market share after it provided stiff competition.
The company, which is a subsidiary of SpaceX, connects more than four million people across the world.
Will new Starlink subscribers in Nairobi pay more?
Meanwhile, Elon Musk-owned SpaceX introduced an additional fee to new Starlink internet subscribers.
The company noted that the one-time congestion fee is charged while purchasing or activating a new service plan.
The extra charge requires new customers in areas where the network capacity is limited to pay KSh 12,899.
