Mnangagwa finally approves Starlink use in Zim

By Staff Writer
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has announced the approval of Starlink’s licensing by POTRAZ, in partnership with IMC Communications,to provide advanced internet services in Zimbabwe.
This follows several months of speculation and even arresting those found connected to Starlink.The move is said to be in line with aligning with the Vision 2030 development agenda.
In a significant development, the President has announced the approval of Starlink’s licensing by the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ).
Starlink, a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite operator owned by SpaceX and spearheaded by prominent billionaire Elon Musk, will provide advanced internet and digital services in Zimbabwe through its exclusive local partner, IMC Communications (Pvt) Ltd.
The introduction of Starlink into Zimbabwe’s digital telecommunications sector is poised to bring high-speed, low-cost LEO internet infrastructure across the nation, with a particular focus on rural areas.
This initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to ensuring that no one and no place is left behind. The confidence shown by Starlink in investing in Zimbabwe’s telecommunications infrastructure echoes the Second Republic’s mantra, “Zimbabwe is open for business.”
The gesture comes on the back of increasing calls for foreign companies to embrace investment opportunities in the country.
“One of the strategic pillars that anchor the Second Republic’s developmental agenda under Vision 2030 is innovation, science and technology. Prioritisation of the digital economy and the emerging importance of technology in our day-to-day activities requires Government to lead from the front in providing an environment where investment in technology is promoted.
“In this vein, I’m pleased to announce that I have approved the licensing of Starlink by POTRAZ to provide advanced internet and related digital processing services in Zimbabwe through its sole and exclusive local partner, IMC Communications (Pvt) Ltd,” said Mnangagwa in a statement.