Starlink has unveiled a plan that allows Kenya to rent its hardware kits every month according to a statement on the company’s official website.
Under the new plan, Kenyans will pay a monthly fee of Kshs 1,950 for Starlink kit rental. Subscribers will also be charged a one-time Ksh 2,700 activation charge.
Customers will then pay for the preferred monthly service plan. Residential customers can pay the standard 50GB service for Kshs 1,300 per month or the standard plan for Kshs 6,500.
The entry of Starlink in Kenya came with the promise of improving internet access even in remote areas. However, the penetration of satellite internet has been challenging due to the heavy upfront fees.
Initially, the hardware kit retailed at Kshs 89,000. The Space X’s internet provider has made multiple attempts to increase the uptake of its services.
Between April and May this year, the firm introduced a 55.6% discount on installation fees. The current price of the hardware kit is Kshs. 45,500. However, the upfront fees remain too high for many Kenyans in need of reliable internet.
In June this year, Starline introduced the standard 50GB data plan at a price of Kshs 1,300 per month. Also, the customers got the chance to submit payments via mobile money services like Airtel Money and M-Pesa.
In a country where the demand for reliable internet is high, Starlink’s rental plan offers an opportunity for more Kenyans to enjoy reliable and fast internet without the heavy installation feels. Additionally, the plan opens the doors for Starlink to increase the uptake of its services in the highly competitive data market.
