Starlink, the satellite internet provider owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has recorded a decline in its Kenyan subscriber base, according to the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA). The latest sector report for January–March 2025 shows satellite internet subscriptions fell by 9.9% to 17,475 users, driven largely by reduced uptake of Starlink’s service. This puts the company’s market share at 0.9%, ranking eighth among Kenya’s top 10 internet service providers (ISPs).
Despite the dip, Starlink still outperformed Liquid Telecommunications Kenya and Vijiji Connect Ltd. Safaricom retained its position as market leader with 678,118 data subscribers, capturing a 36.5% share. It was followed by Jamii Telecommunications Ltd with 418,309 subscribers (22.5%) and Wananchi Group Ltd with 267,812 (14.4%).
Starlink, launched in Kenya in 2023, quickly gained traction for its competitively priced, high-speed satellite internet, rivaling fibre-optic offerings from established telcos. However, its steep hardware costs initially limited adoption. The starter kit debuted at Ksh 74,000 before being reduced to Ksh 39,500, and later to Ksh 29,000. Still, affordability remained a barrier, prompting the company to introduce a rental option Ksh 2,700 activation, Ksh 1,950 monthly hardware rental, and data plans starting at Ksh 1,300 for 50 GB with speeds of up to 200 Mbps.
Starlink’s growing popularity drew the attention of Safaricom, which urged regulators to reassess licensing for satellite providers, citing risks of illegal connections and interference with mobile networks. Safaricom proposed that such operators partner with local licensees.
While the CA did not publicly respond, President William Ruto in September 2024 praised Starlink’s entry for spurring competition, noting that it pushed incumbents like Safaricom to improve services.
Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa has signaled openness to a potential partnership, stating that satellite internet could complement fibre in underserved regions. However, he clarified that no formal agreement has been reached.
The latest figures suggest Starlink faces the challenge of balancing affordability and growth in Kenya’s competitive ISP market, even as it remains a significant disruptor in the sector.
