NAIROBI, Kenya- The High Court of Kenya has expedited the hearing of a petition that could open the door for Elon Musk’s Starlink to provide satellite internet services in Kenya.
This move signals a potential game-changer in the country’s internet landscape, which local players like Safaricom, Jamii Telecommunications, and Zuku currently dominate.
The case, brought by Kituo Cha Sheria, has garnered attention as it seeks to clear regulatory hurdles that have delayed Starlink’s entry into the Kenyan market.
Yesterday, Justice Lawrence Mugambi oversaw a session in which all parties—including Safaricom, the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), and Kituo Cha Sheria—agreed to drop preliminary objections in favor of focusing on the main petition.
This will accelerate the legal process, with the hearing set for November 25.
Representing the CA, lawyer Kilonzo Wambua emphasized the matter’s public significance, stating that a swift resolution was essential.
Safaricom and Kituo Cha Sheria echoed this sentiment, noting the importance of the case to consumers and Kenya’s evolving digital economy.
Kituo Cha Sheria’s petition also calls for a comprehensive, unbiased study on satellite internet services by relevant regulators like the Competition Authority of Kenya (CAK) and the CA.
The organization stressed that any regulatory framework should be informed by best global practices and should remain free from influence by established mobile network operators.
Starlink, backed by the world’s richest person, Elon Musk, is betting on lowering internet costs in Kenya by offering satellite-based connectivity.
Currently, the market is led by traditional fiber and mobile internet providers, but satellite technology could bring significant advantages, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Kituo Cha Sheria argues that equitable access to the internet is a fundamental socio-economic right. The NGO’s executive director, Dr. Annette Mbogoh, emphasized that reliable internet is key to accessing essential services, education, job opportunities, and healthcare information.
She further pointed out that internet inequality exacerbates existing social and economic gaps, especially in marginalized communities.
“As societies become more digitally interconnected, access to the internet is crucial for economic growth and social mobility,” Dr. Mbogoh stated.
She hopes that Starlink’s entry will democratize internet access and foster inclusivity in Kenya’s digital future.
As the November 25 hearing approaches, all eyes are on the Kenyan High Court to determine the future of satellite internet regulation in the country.
In the meantime, stakeholders are preparing for what could be a major disruption in Kenya’s internet market—a market where affordable, widespread access could significantly change the socio-economic landscape.
