After a seven-month suspension, Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, has officially resumed new subscriptions in Nairobi, Kenya. The freeze began in November 2024 and affected surrounding counties such as Kiambu, Machakos, Kajiado, and Murang’a.
The company attributed the pause to an imbalance in its network capacity driven by soaring demand in these regions. As it sought to address the situation, Starlink expanded its infrastructure to enhance service delivery. The resumption of sign-ups signifies that the necessary adjustments have been made to accommodate new users.
In January, Starlink invested significantly in the region by launching its second African ground station—known as a point of presence (PoP)—in Nairobi. Before this move, Nigeria was the only African country hosting a Starlink PoP, which limited the company’s ability to provide comprehensive coverage across the continent. Establishing the Nairobi PoP is expected to bolster network capacity, improve service quality, and reduce latency for Kenyan customers.
Starlink’s entry into the Kenyan market has been met with enthusiasm, showcasing a rapid consumer uptake. This growth is particularly notable in rural areas, where conventional broadband services have been scarce. The company’s expansion represents a pivotal development for internet accessibility in Kenya, especially for regions historically facing connectivity challenges. As Starlink restores its subscription options, the focus remains on improving the user experience in a country increasingly reliant on enhanced internet services.
