The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) has voiced its support for the entry of Starlink, the satellite internet provider owned by Elon Musk, into the Kenyan market. This support comes amid significant opposition from Safaricom Plc, Kenya’s largest mobile communications service provider, which has raised concerns about the potential risks of allowing Starlink and similar satellite service providers to operate independently.
IEK President Shammah Kiteme has emphasized that Starlink’s entry is crucial for enhancing digital inclusivity in Kenya. According to Kiteme, the presence of Starlink will help address the digital divide that persists in remote and underserved areas of the country. Despite Kenya’s efforts to boost internet access and bridge the digital gap, disparities remain, particularly in regions that are not easily reached by traditional internet infrastructure.
“The digital divide not only limits educational and economic opportunities but also hinders the effective delivery of public services,” Kiteme stated. “To bridge this gap, it is imperative that we embrace innovative solutions that can deliver high-speed, reliable internet across all regions of the country.”
Starlink’s satellite technology, which utilizes low Earth orbit satellites, is poised to provide high-speed internet in areas that are traditionally underserved by conventional service providers. This capability is seen as a significant advancement towards achieving universal internet access in Kenya.
Safaricom, in a letter to the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) dated July 5, 2024, has expressed concerns about Starlink’s entry. The telecommunications giant argues that the firm should not operate without partnering with a local service provider. Safaricom has requested that the CA assess the potential risks associated with granting independent licenses to satellite service providers, suggesting that such providers should be required to establish agreements with existing local licensees.
The company’s opposition reflects fears that the entry of independent satellite providers might pose risks to the Kenyan telecommunications market, including potential disruptions and competitive imbalances. Safaricom proposes that the CA mandate satellite service providers to collaborate with local operators as a condition for operating in the country.
In response, IEK has rejected Safaricom’s attempts to prevent Starlink from entering the Kenyan market. The institution argues that increased competition is beneficial for consumers, as it drives innovation, reduces costs, and improves service quality. By introducing a new and innovative service provider like Starlink, Kenya can advance towards more equitable access to digital resources.
“Blocking the entry of a new and innovative service provider undermines the principles of free market competition and slows down the progress toward achieving universal internet access,” Kiteme added. The IEK believes that maintaining an open and competitive market is crucial for fostering technological advancement and improving internet accessibility across Kenya.
The IEK also urges the CA and other relevant regulatory bodies to keep the Kenyan market open and competitive. Kiteme has called for the development of general guidelines that promote industry entry while ensuring that the right principles are followed and consumer protection is prioritized.
As Kenya continues to strive towards enhancing its digital infrastructure, the debate over Starlink’s entry highlights the broader challenges of balancing innovation with regulatory oversight. The outcome of this regulatory decision will likely have significant implications for the future of internet access in Kenya, shaping the landscape of digital connectivity in the country for years to come.
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