In a significant development, Zambia has joined the league of African countries benefitting from the commercial launch of Starlink’s satellite broadband services, marking a remarkable advancement in bridging the digital divide. Starlink, the satellite internet business of SpaceX, has introduced Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites to provide high-speed, low-latency broadband internet primarily targeting remote and rural areas globally.
The service, now available in Zambia, comes at a monthly subscription of ZMW771 (USD35.9) and an initial hardware cost of ZMW10,744. Starlink envisions offering users a blend of typical high-speed internet with intermittent service and high latency, enabling common internet activities like email, online shopping, and movie streaming. However, it is expected that activities such as online gaming or video calls may pose challenges at times. The firm is committed to continuous improvement, promising a significant enhancement in service quality over the next year.
Starlink now approved in Zambia https://t.co/UqKH3D80Ay
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 9, 2023
This development follows Starlink’s successful licensing and pilot projects in Zambia’s nine provinces. Paratus Zambia, a prominent pan-African telco and network services provider, is tasked with distributing Starlink’s services in the country.
Zambia becomes the sixth African nation to access Starlink services, following Mozambique, Rwanda, Mauritius, Sierra Leone, and Nigeria. Despite making substantial strides across the continent, Starlink has encountered resistance in South Africa due to regulatory requirements mandating 30% ownership for historically disadvantaged groups.
Paratus Group recently signed a reseller agreement with Starlink, facilitating the seamless distribution of Starlink services. Paratus Zambia emphasizes providing exceptional value to business customers, offering streamlined enterprise orders, multiple payment options, and comprehensive support and installation services.
Marius van Vuuren, Country Manager of Paratus Zambia, expressed excitement about this collaboration, highlighting the company’s readiness to deliver and install the Starlink service efficiently. The business-focused service aims to empower various sectors, including energy, mining, hospitality, education, healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing, by ensuring reliable and constant connectivity, even in the most remote areas.
This new offering has sparked enthusiasm in the Zambian community, opening doors to affordable digital access for all and embracing the rapid advancement of technology.
Categories: News
Source: vothisaucamau.edu.vn
