Safaricom, a leading telecoms company in Kenya, has refuted claims that it has restricted the payment of Starlink services through its mobile money platform, M-PESA. The clarification follows a post on X (formerly Twitter), where a user alleged that Safaricom had canceled payment access for Elon Musk’s satellite internet service. The post, which quickly gained attention, declared, “WAR IS WAR. Safaricom has cancelled the payment of STARLINK Internet via M-PESA.”
In response, Safaricom dismissed the claim as unfounded, assuring customers that the payment option remains available. The company also encouraged users to contact them directly if they encounter any issues with the service.
Before the controversy on X, Safaricom had reportedly suggested to the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) that satellite internet providers, like Starlink, should be required to partner with a local licensee to operate in the country. The telco argued that allowing satellite providers to function independently, without a physical presence, would pose challenges in terms of regulation and accountability.
Safaricom’s proposal also urged the CA to carefully assess the risks associated with satellite internet services and ensure they operate under the licence of a local entity. This move, according to Safaricom, would help maintain control and uphold regulatory standards in the dynamic ICT sector.
In response to these concerns, the Communications Authority acknowledged that service providers are free to raise issues within the market. The regulator emphasized that it examines such matters independently, within its mandate and regulatory framework, to support the growth of Kenya’s rapidly evolving ICT sector.
Meanwhile, in Kenya, Starlink, which launched in July 2023, has introduced a rental option for its hardware, catering to customers who may not afford to purchase the equipment outright. Concurrently, Safaricom has reportedly lowered its internet pricing to regain customers who had switched to Starlink.
As Safaricom continues to compete in the evolving market, it has also reported strong financial performance. For the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024, the company exceeded expectations with earnings of $1.07 billion. Additionally, Safaricom aims to expand its 5G network by establishing 1,700 sites, surpassing Airtel Kenya by 113 sites. The company had initially planned to launch its own satellite internet service in July 2023, positioning itself as a competitor to Starlink in the Kenyan market.