With its attractive deals and quicker internet speeds, Elon Musk’s Starlink has upended the internet market. Safaricom, the biggest telecommunications service provider in Kenya, plans to collaborate with Starlink.
According to Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom, in an interview with Bloomberg, the possible collaboration will guarantee that Musk’s Starlink enhances the indigenous technology.
He went on to say that satellite technology works well for getting internet connectivity to regions where fiber-based technology—which is what Safaricom and other local carriers use—cannot be used, such as rural areas.
Ndegwa also praised Safaricom’s influence, pointing out that fiber optic cable is more popular for homes and international corporations, and that 4G technology has a 95% nationwide reach.
In response to worries that Starlink’s wave might be halted, the CEO wrote the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), pleading with them to reevaluate their decision to license satellite internet companies.
“From a satellite perspective, we will need to collaborate in the future with Starlink or other satellite service providers to ensure that that technology works as intended.
“We will keep having talks as long as they enhance what we are providing, as we have already had some,” he told an American news organisation.
“Fibre is among the best in the area. The satellite enhances or adds to the existing technology. We’re letting the regulator know that, instead of competing in populated areas, we use satellite in underserved areas for the nation’s benefit. We will handle the competition; therefore, we’re not concerned about it.”
Ndegwa elaborated on the document sent to CA, saying that the telecom shared its opinions as part of public participation and looked for a solution to make the satellite technology work in the Kenyan market.
“I believe there is a common misconception that Safaricom creates obstacles.”
“We do not control anything. We had voiced our opinions on how the regulator should make sure business leaders voice their opinions about how this relates to the Constitution’s guarantee of public involvement,” he said.
That is the key point, as we are powerless to stop anyone from conducting business in Kenya. Regulators are responsible for making that decision.”
A number of authorities worldwide, including those in Taiwan and India, have expressed worries regarding the compliance of satellite internet services with local legislation.
Locally, critics assert that Starlink lured users in with better deals and dominated the market, which Safaricom had previously primarily controlled.
During a roundtable event in New York, President Ruto recently offered his thoughts on the subject, saying that Starlink’s existence has encouraged legitimate rivalry in the marketplace, which is pushing Safaricom to offer greater quality services.
