Starlink has become a lifeline for many Zimbabweans seeking reliable internet connectivity. Its arrival has been met with enthusiasm, particularly in areas where traditional internet infrastructure is lacking. We have previously reported on the popularity of Starlink in Zimbabwe, even noting when capacity became limited in urban areas like Harare.

While Starlink has proven incredibly popular in Harare, leading to temporary “sold out” situations, there is good news on the horizon. As we reported recently, Starlink capacity has opened up again in Bulawayo and surrounding towns, including Chegutu and Macheke. This means you can now purchase Starlink kits directly from the Starlink website for these areas, bypassing potentially expensive business resellers.

However, a common question arises when considering Starlink for use outside urban areas: how does ordering a kit for a rural location in Zimbabwe actually work? This article aims to demystify the process, providing a clear and comprehensive guide to ensure you can get connected, regardless of your location in the world.

For many urban users, ordering Starlink is straightforward; simply enter your address, confirm availability, make payment, and the kit is delivered. Indeed, delivery these days by DHL can be remarkably quick. We have seen kits delivered in as little as 24 hours. However, the process is more nuanced for rural areas. Understanding the three key addresses Starlink requires is crucial. In urban areas, these addresses often coincide, but in rural settings, they require careful consideration.

Let us break down the three address types needed when ordering Starlink:

Service Address: Where the Starlink Will Actually Be Used

The service address is paramount. It specifies where you intend to use your Starlink kit. This is the first address you will be prompted to enter on the Starlink website.

Crucially, when buying a kit for use in Zimbabwe, always visit the dedicated Starlink Zimbabwe website: https://www.starlink.com/zw. Avoid simply going to “starlink.com,” as your browser may redirect you to your country’s local Starlink site, potentially limiting your access to Zimbabwean offers and availability.

The dedicated Starlink Zimbabwe website allows you to see offers for Zimbabwe right from the start.

For rural areas, providing a precise street address can be challenging. Instead, you can typically enter your village name or the name of the nearest shopping centre, school, or prominent business. You might need to experiment with different variations until the system recognises the location.

Once your rural service address is accepted, you can proceed to select your preferred Starlink package and payment plan. Finally, click on “Checkout,” where you will be prompted for the remaining two address types.

Shipping Address: Where the Kit Will Be Delivered

The shipping address dictates where DHL will deliver your Starlink kit. While DHL technically offers delivery throughout Zimbabwe, in practice, its service is primarily concentrated in urban areas and sometimes extends to rural shopping centres and growth points.

Here’s how to leverage this:

• Urban Resident Buying for Rural Use: If you reside in Harare (when capacity opens up again), you can use your Harare address as the shipping address while specifying the rural location as the service address. This allows DHL to deliver the kit to your Harare residence for subsequent transport to the rural location.
• Diaspora Buyer: If you are buying the kit from abroad for relatives in rural Zimbabwe, you can use the address of a trusted friend or family member in an urban area as the shipping address. They can then receive the kit and forward it to its final destination.
• General Urban Delivery: You can enter a general urban location such as “Mutare,” “Harare,” “Bulawayo,” or “Gokwe Centre” as the shipping address. This will result in the kit being delivered to the DHL centre in that designated location or the nearest major urban area. You can then arrange for someone to collect the kit from the DHL office and transport it to the service address.

Billing Address: The Payer’s Address

The billing address is associated with the person making the payment. If you are in the diaspora and paying for a kit for family in Zimbabwe, you must provide your actual address as it appears on your credit or debit card statement. Discrepancies between the billing address and the address associated with your card can sometimes lead to payment issues.

Putting it All Together: A Seamless Ordering Process

By understanding these three distinct address types, you can confidently order a Starlink kit for use in any rural location in Zimbabwe, irrespective of your current location in the world.

Once the kit arrives, transport it to the specified rural location, connect it, and activate the service. The kit can often function in slightly different locations, as long as they are within an area where Starlink has capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I specify areas like Macheke or Headlands when searching for the service address? When I type “Macheke,” locations in South Africa appear.

To specify locations such as Macheke or Headlands, start by entering “Zimbabwe” or “Mashonaland East” along with the name. You may need to try variations of the spelling. Alternatively, zoom in on the map and pinpoint the location.

Starlink is showing up as sold out for my location in Harare when will capacity open up?

The timing of when Starlink increases capacity is uncertain. It may be useful to check the website on a weekly basis to see if capacity is available.

Can I relocate my Starlink Kit to another location after it has been activated?

Yes, you can typically relocate your Starlink Kit. However, you should update your service address on the Starlink website to reflect the new location. Be aware that service availability depends on capacity in the new area. If the new location is “sold out,” your service may be limited or unavailable.

Can I use my Starlink kit in Zimbabwe if it was originally purchased and activated in another country?

While technically possible through the portability feature, it is generally not recommended. Starlink’s terms of service may restrict permanent use outside the designated service area. Performance may also be affected. It is always best to purchase a kit specifically for use in Zimbabwe.