Starlink, the satellite internet service provider, has announced a pause on new sign-ups for its residential plans in several urban centers across Africa due to network capacity challenges.
The company is currently prioritizing efforts to expand its service capacity in densely populated areas to accommodate the rising demand for internet connectivity. However, it reassured potential users that rural regions still have sufficient internet coverage.
In a recent statement, Starlink noted, “We are actively working to enhance internet capacity in Africa’s bustling urban regions. Importantly, significant service availability persists outside major metropolitan areas.”
The decision to halt new subscriptions was initially communicated to potential users in Nairobi, where existing demand has reached full network capacity. “Nairobi and its surrounding regions are experiencing an overload, with too many users accessing the service. This situation has limited our ability to support new residential or roaming customers at this moment,” the company explained.
The network strain has also impacted nearby locations, including Thika, Kajiado, Kiambu, Naivasha, Ngong, Machakos, and parts of Narok.
Starlink has encouraged interested customers to submit their email addresses to receive notifications when service resumes.
Since launching in Kenya a few months ago, Starlink has significantly impacted the local internet service landscape, prompting discussions about regulatory measures or partnerships with existing providers.
Unlike traditional internet services that depend on fiber optic cables, Starlink uses satellite technology for connectivity, boasting higher internet speeds and potential affordability for subscribers willing to invest in the necessary equipment.