In a recent conversation with a client who purchased Starlink, DHL Zimbabwe disclosed a remarkable insight into the rising popularity of Starlink in the country. The courier company revealed that they processed an estimated 2000 imports last week and are anticipating handling approximately 3000 imports this week. Whilst DHL did not disclose exact figures for Starlink kits due to company policy, it is understood that a significant portion of these imports consists of Starlink equipment.

This revelation is the latest indicator of a surge in demand that has been building since Starlink’s official launch in Zimbabwe. DHL, known for its reliable delivery estimates, has generally lived up to its reputation for timely deliveries, often beating their projected delivery dates. However, the Starlink phenomenon has presented a unique challenge.

DHL’s Role in Delivering Starlink Kits

DHL has long been renowned for its reliable service and timely deliveries, often exceeding customer expectations by delivering products ahead of schedule. However, the introduction of Starlink has proven to be a unique challenge for the logistics giant. While some customers, particularly in Bulawayo, have already received their Starlink kits, a significant number of orders placed in the first week following the service’s launch remain pending. This delay has led to concern among customers, particularly those new to online shopping, who became anxious when their tracking statuses changed to “on hold.”

This status typically indicates that an item is not in transit, leading to speculation that the government may have interfered with Starlink’s operations. Given the initial hesitancy from the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) to endorse Starlink, some customers feared the government had seized the kits. However, as we reported earlier in our analysis on Starlink’s arrival in Zimbabwe, these concerns were unfounded. POTRAZ, while slow to announce Starlink’s legitimacy, had already given its tacit approval, and government officials were fully on board with the new service.

The Real Reason for Delivery Delays

The delays appear to stem from DHL’s system facing unprecedented demand, particularly for its U.S. to Zimbabwe route, which has never been tested to this extent. The surge in orders for Starlink has strained the courier’s capacity, especially in urban areas such as Harare, which is now reaching its order capacity. Starlink has even stopped taking new orders from certain regions, requiring customers to place deposits and join waiting lists for future availability.

The Appeal of Starlink: A Game-Changer for Connectivity

When Starlink initially launched, there was widespread scepticism about its affordability for the average Zimbabwean. The company offers two main kits: the Mini Kit, priced at $223, and the Standard Kit, costing $350. Both kits require a one-time shipping fee of $23. This launch coincided with the first week of September when families were dealing with school fees, rent, and other household expenses, making it seem unlikely that many Zimbabweans would prioritise purchasing a Starlink kit.

However, as we highlighted in our earlier article about Starlink’s potential affordability, Starlink is not targeting first-time internet users. Instead, the service is poised to attract wealthier consumers dissatisfied with their current internet service providers, as well as businesses and organisations looking for reliable connectivity. Many of these potential customers are already using high-end services like VSAT, which require even more significant investments in equipment and monthly fees.

Who Can Afford Starlink?

The initial high cost of the hardware may deter some users, but it is essential to remember that Starlink’s offerings are competitive compared to the alternatives. For instance, VSAT users have been known to spend upwards of $1,000 on hardware alone, making Starlink’s pricing seem relatively reasonable. In addition, with the monthly subscription starting at $30 for the Mini package, Starlink provides a more affordable and reliable option than many existing internet services in Zimbabwe.

Several factors contribute to Starlink’s popularity:

Existing High-End Internet Users: A substantial number of affluent customers were already dissatisfied with their current internet service providers. Starlink presents an attractive alternative for those willing to invest in quality connectivity.
VSAT Users: Many businesses and individuals relying on VSAT technology are likely to see Starlink as a superior and potentially more cost-effective solution. As we detailed in our comparison of internet options, Starlink offers significant advantages over traditional satellite internet.
Rural and Underserved Areas: Starlink’s ability to provide high-speed internet in remote locations makes it particularly appealing to those in rural areas like Uzumba, where traditional infrastructure is lacking.
Professionals and Businesses: With the rise of remote work and digital business operations, reliable high-speed internet has become essential for many professionals and companies.
Educational Institutions: Schools and universities, especially in underserved areas, see Starlink as a means to enhance digital learning opportunities.
Government Offices: Local government branches and public services could benefit from improved connectivity to streamline operations.

Meeting the Needs of Rural Zimbabwe

Starlink’s true potential lies in its ability to provide high-speed internet to underserved and rural areas. For years, connectivity in regions like Uzumba and Nyanga has been limited or non-existent, relying on outdated technologies such as CDMA and WiMAX. Starlink, with its satellite-based infrastructure, offers a viable alternative to these outdated systems, providing speeds of up to 200 Mbps for rural communities that have traditionally been left behind in Zimbabwe’s internet revolution.

Additionally, as Starlink gains traction, it is expected to foster competition among existing internet service providers. This competition could lead to lower prices across the board, as we observed with mobile data services in Zimbabwe over the past decade.

Challenges and Opportunities

While Starlink’s initial rollout in Zimbabwe has not been without challenges, its potential impact on the country’s connectivity landscape is undeniable. By offering reliable high-speed internet in areas where traditional services have failed, Starlink can bridge the digital divide and unlock new economic opportunities. Rural clinics, schools, and businesses could finally access the tools they need to thrive in a globalised economy.

Moreover, Starlink’s eventual expansion into direct-to-cell connectivity—a service currently being explored by the company—could further revolutionise Zimbabwe’s telecom sector. By partnering with mobile providers, Starlink could help deliver 100% coverage across the country, eliminating mobile network dead zones and providing a seamless internet experience.

The surge in demand for Starlink kits is a testament to the hunger for reliable internet access in Zimbabwe. While the service may not be accessible to every Zimbabwean right now, its entry into the market marks a significant milestone in the country’s journey toward digital inclusion. With over 300,000 potential high-end internet users, Starlink has already carved out a substantial market. Over time, as competition drives down prices and adoption increases, the service may become a more affordable option for a broader segment of the population.

As always, Zimpricecheck will continue to monitor developments in the internet landscape and provide up-to-date information on how these changes will impact you. Stay tuned for future updates, and for those looking to place an order for Starlink, remember that patience is key during this period of high demand.