Starlink has launched a more affordable kit along with a monthly residential plan priced at $30.87 in Kenya, just three days after Safaricom enhanced its fiber internet speeds to counter the growing presence of the Elon Musk-owned satellite internet service.

The new Starlink Mini is available for $208.38 (KES27,000) and offers speeds of up to 100 Mbps, appealing to cost-conscious consumers. Starlink initially entered the Kenyan market in July 2023 with a kit priced at KES45,000 ($347.25).

The introduction of Starlink’s residential Lite plan is set to heighten competition for subscribers across the country, as users increasingly seek more affordable and faster internet options. Additionally, in August, Starlink rolled out a $15 monthly kit rental plan.



In response to Starlink's rising popularity, Safaricom, Kenya's largest internet service provider, upgraded its internet speeds on Monday. The 10 Mbps package was boosted to 15 Mbps for KES 3,000 ($23), while the 20 Mbps plan was enhanced to 30 Mbps.

Furthermore, Safaricom doubled the speeds for its 40 Mbps users and increased the 100 Mbps package speed fivefold. A new 1 Gbps package was also introduced at KES 20,000 ($155) for high-demand internet users.

Safaricom has been advocating for the Communication Authority of Kenya (CA) to restrict satellite ISPs like Starlink, citing concerns over its market dominance in Kenya's broadband sector.

With a 36.7% market share, Safaricom maintains a strong position in the data market and operates 14,000 km of fiber optic cable, serving approximately 400,000 customers.