Starlink has officially launched its satellite Internet service in Botswana, overcoming significant regulatory challenges and lengthy negotiations with the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority.
Following the receipt of its operating license three months ago, residents can now purchase Starlink hardware for P4,820 ($363), plus shipping costs, and a monthly subscription fee of P688 ($52). This entry positions Starlink as a potential disruptor in Botswana’s Internet market, historically dominated by established providers like BTC, Mascom, and Orange.
Starlink’s path to launching in Botswana was far from smooth. The company initially applied for a license in early 2023, but BOCRA rejected the application in February 2024, citing incomplete information. Despite Starlink insiders insisting that the application was complete, BOCRA maintained its position, creating uncertainty about the future of the service in Botswana.
The situation escalated when the telecom regulator imposed a ban on the use, sale, and importation of Starlink kits in the country just weeks after rejecting the application. This ban caused further confusion and uncertainty for potential users.
In April 2024, Starlink notified its roaming customers that they could only access its service in authorized locations, effectively disconnecting users in unauthorized areas, including Botswana. However, in a significant turn of events, President Mokgweetsi Masisi met with Starlink executives in Dallas, Texas, in May 2024. Following this meeting, President Masisi recommended that BOCRA reconsider its stance, leading to the approval of Starlink’s license later that month.
With Botswana now the sixth Southern African country to host Starlink, following Zambia, Eswatini, Malawi, Mozambique, and Madagascar, the service is expected to bring much-needed high-speed Internet to remote and underserved areas. Traditional ISPs in Botswana have struggled to provide reliable connectivity, making Starlink’s satellite-based service a potentially game-changing solution.
As Starlink begins its operations, all eyes are on how the service will impact the ISP market in Botswana, particularly in terms of pricing, competition, and Internet penetration. The success of Starlink in Botswana could set a precedent for other countries in the region, including Zimbabwe and South Africa.
Stay well-informed and be the very first to receive all the most recent updates directly in your email! Tap here to join now for free!
