Kenya risks America’s wrath if it blocks access to Musk’s Starlink

Kenya is risking the wrath of the US government by trying to block Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service from expanding into the Kenyan market, as Nairobi negotiates a trade deal. and Washington, analysts said.

Any move by Kenyan authorities to block Starlink’s expansion into the country could put ongoing trade talks between Nairobi and Washington in jeopardy, according to industry analysts.

Analysts said yesterday that as Kenya navigates tough trade talks with the United States (US), any proposed protection against American technology firms could put negotiations and wider economic cooperation in the balance. of these two nations in danger.

“Blocking Starlink’s entry would be a dangerous gamble for Kenya, especially as it seeks to deepen economic ties with the US,” said environmental economist Ian Njoroge.

“The US administration has made it clear that it considers Starlink a strategic asset and would retaliate against any attempt to block its expansion.” Starlink, the satellite internet service operated by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, is expanding globally, including in various African markets. Its high-speed, low-latency connectivity has attracted significant interest, particularly in underserved rural areas.

However, market leader Safaricom has urged regulators to consider imposing conditions on Starlink’s entry, which would allow the company to partner with local players – a move that analysts say could undermine the region’s exclusive sale of service.

The US views Kenya as an African technology hub with great business opportunities, and the ongoing Joe Biden administration has pushed for more business opportunities for American technology firms. This has seen US ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman, former CEO of tech giants eBay and Hewlett-Packard pursue American tech firms in Kenya.

Responding to Safaricom’s request, Kenya’s telecommunications regulator said on Friday The Standard that licensed service providers are free to bring any market problems to the attention of the authorities

“Licensees or service providers are free to raise any issue in the market with the regulator,” Communications Authority Kenya (CA) Director General David Mugonyi said in a statement.

The commander said he would review such matters independently within his command and systems, and respond accordingly. “It is a common practice as we seek to help the development of the information and communication sectors,” Mugonyi said. The Standard accomplished.

President William Ruto has consistently pledged to prioritize the development of strong internet infrastructure across the country, promising to create an enabling environment for Kenya’s growing youth, often referred to as “Generation Z”. promoting digital tools and creating their jobs. Analysts say that empowering the youth with a better way to use the internet can be an important factor in the Ruto administration’s efforts to revive the economy.

Kenyans, especially those in rural and underserved areas, have been struggling with poor connectivity and high costs from existing telecom players. Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite Internet service has been widely welcomed in the country, seen as a move that could disrupt the country’s mobile phone landscape.

The arrival of Starlink has raised hopes for improved accessibility and affordability based on standard testing.

“The Internet is a necessity, not a luxury, and Kenyans deserve unfettered access to the technology available,” said Alex Mugo, director of the resort in Naivasha.