Nigeria and Mozambique approves Starlink internet services, becoming the first two African countries to give the SpaceX-controlled company permission to operate. With the approval, the alternative internet firm is now operational in all seven continents of the world.
Tech billionaire and SpaceX boss Elon Musk Tweeted the news before the company also confirmed it.
First two countries in Africa with Starlink regulatory approval; Starlink is now licensed on all seven continents! https://t.co/0dpjoek54i
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) May 27, 2022
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Why is this good news?
For Africans, where there are many developing fintech companies and several people taking on remote jobs; better internet has always been a dream. Take for example, while writing this article, I did a speed test on the MTN network (in Nigeria) and the result was 20.7 Mbps for downloads and 1.79 Mpbs for uploads.
When compared to the average speed that Starlink is able to provide (somewhere between 150Mbps and 100Mbps), the difference is glaring. However, it might be worth noting that in Nigeria, you only need to acquire a SIM card that costs less than a dollar and pay a subscription to start using the internet. meanwhile, to start using Starlink internet, you need to buy the kit, which costs about $600 and also still pay subscriptions that could be as high as $110 every month.
Additionally, even for businesses, the pricing is steep. They must be willing to shell out $2,500 in equipment cost and a monthly sub of $500. The economics could still prevent many interested people from leaving subpar local internet providers.
Here are a few things you should know, if you can afford Starlink services in Nigeria:
- The kit typically includes a wifi router, cables and base.
- The device will require a clear view of the sky.
- You will need to download the right Starlink App to determine best location for installation.
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