Starlink has rapidly ascended to become Kenya’s seventh-largest internet service provider (ISP) just six months after entering the top ten rankings in the country. With 19,146 users, the satellite broadband provider has captured 1.1% of the internet market, surpassing local competitors such as Dimension Data and Liquid Telecommunications Kenya. Despite its rapid growth, Starlink still lags significantly behind market leaders Safaricom and Jamii Telecommunications.
The growth of Starlink highlights a trend towards increased adoption of satellite internet in Kenya, particularly in regions lacking traditional broadband infrastructure. While other satellite providers collectively serve only 257 customers, Starlink’s presence has prompted increased regulatory scrutiny.
In response to Starlink’s competition, local ISPs, including Safaricom and Airtel Kenya, have expressed concerns about market distortion. Consequently, the Communications Authority of Kenya plans to raise satellite licence fees and impose a turnover levy, which could impact Starlink’s future growth.
Nevertheless, Starlink continues its expansion strategy by establishing local infrastructure, such as the Nairobi ground station launched in December 2024, and introducing competitive pricing models. The company also seeks to innovate by deploying direct-to-mobile satellites by 2025, further challenging traditional telecommunications providers.
While Starlink has made significant strides, with a market share of 1.1%, it remains distant from leading ISPs like Safaricom, which holds 36.1% of the market, indicating significant room for growth in its quest to disrupt Kenya’s internet service landscape.
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