Starlink has discontinued its roaming services across African markets, hinting at stricter regulatory measures for the Elon Musk-owned satellite internet provider. Currently available in 15 African countries, Starlink requires approval from local regulators before launching operations in each market.
“Space X gets to bear the burden of any penalties from the authorities. It also complicates all ongoing negotiations with governments to get permits to operate there,” one industry expert said,
Customers have been bypassing this requirement by importing Starlink kits and using them in countries where it lacks a licence. They have relied on Starlink’s roaming feature, which allowed customers to access satellite internet beyond their primary location, including across borders and in countries such as South Africa.
South Africa is considering amending a law that requires global communications companies to cede 30% ownership to local, which could pave the way for Starlink. South African authorities state that Starlink’s services are unlawful in the country without a local operating licence.
Though Starlink does not disclose its active user numbers, its popularity has grown in African markets where internet infrastructure is underdeveloped, making fibre and similar broadband services scarce.
In June 2023, Starlink launched in Kenya and quickly amassed over 8,000 customers—the fastest growth for any internet service provider (ISP) compared to others that took years to establish a robust user base.
Some users preferred the roaming package, which costs KES 14,000 ($109) per month; however, this option is no longer available due to the discontinuation of roaming. Starlink’s entry into the Kenyan market also intensified competitive tension with other internet service providers, particularly Safaricom.
In October 2024, Starlink raised prices across all its services in Nigeria, with the local roaming cost jumping from ₦49,000 ($30) to ₦167,000 ($102) monthly. However, following intervention by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the company is set to revert to its original pricing.
