In a move to enforce regulatory compliance, the Posts and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe has instructed Starlink, the satellite internet company owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, to cease operations until proper licensing is obtained.
Gift Machengete, the director-general of the authority, announced the directive aimed at disconnecting all unauthorized Starlink kits operating in the southern African nation.
This action follows a previous warning issued by Zimbabwe in September, urging Starlink users and resellers to acquire the necessary licenses to operate legally within the country’s telecommunications framework. Machengete emphasized the illegality of broadcasting without proper licensing and outlined the regulator’s stance on the matter.
To rectify the situation, the regulatory authority proposed two options for Starlink’s compliance: the company can either apply directly for a license or collaborate with a registered public network within Zimbabwe to offer its services.
Machengete confirmed direct communication with Elon Musk, wherein he requested SpaceX to submit a formal application for providing services in Zimbabwe before any further action could be taken.
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Describing the meeting as cordial, Machengete expressed confidence in a swift resolution once the formal application is submitted, indicating a cooperative approach from both parties. However, until proper licensing is secured, Starlink’s operations in Zimbabwe remain suspended.
Starlink’s foray into Africa has encountered regulatory hurdles across the continent, where internet access remains a critical issue. With only 40% of Africa’s over 1.3 billion population connected to the internet, regulatory challenges pose significant barriers to expanding connectivity.
Zimbabwe joins other African nations, including neighboring South Africa, in grappling with licensing issues surrounding the deployment of Starlink services.
As the demand for reliable internet connectivity continues to rise in Africa, the outcome of regulatory negotiations with companies like Starlink will play a crucial role in shaping the future of telecommunications infrastructure and digital access across the continent.
