Elon Musk Responds After William Ruto Confirms He Allowed Starlink To Enter Kenyan Market

• President William Ruto said Starlink's competition with Safaricom and other internet service providers would ensure Kenyans get quality services
• While responding to Ruto's remarks, Starlink owner Elon Musk expressed satisfaction with the significant impact that the satellite internet service provider has had in Kenya
• Starlink entered the Kenyan market in July 2023 and has since given local internet service providers a run for their money

TUKO.co.ke journalist Japhet Ruto has over eight years of experience in financial, business, and technology reporting and offers profound insights into Kenyan and global economic trends.

President William Ruto has backed the entrance of American billionaire Elon Musk's satellite internet service Starlink into the Kenyan market.

Why Ruto gave the green light to Starlink

Speaking during his tour of the United States (US) on Tuesday, September 24, Ruto confirmed he gave the green light for the SpaceX subsidiary to operate in Kenya.

The president encouraged competition among internet service providers (ISPs) to ensure customers receive high-quality services.

"I have my CEO for Safaricom, sometimes he's not very happy with me for bringing other characters like Elon Musk and others into the space. I keep encouraging Peter that competition makes you keep ahead, and he's been doing pretty well; I must admit, he's really upped his game," Ruto explained.

How did Elon Musk respond?

While responding to Ruto's remarks, Musk expressed satisfaction with the significant impact that Starlink, his satellite internet service provider, has had in Kenya.

Starlink entered the Kenyan market in July 2023 and has since given Safaricom and other ISPs a run for their money.

"As the president of Kenya says, Starlink causes local competitors to provide better services,” he posted on X.

What are the installation costs for Starlink?

Starlink Kenya told TUKO.co.ke that Starlink is designed for self-installation.

As such, if one follows the installation instructions, one will save some money.

"If you prefer a professional to handle the installation, costs can vary widely. Typically, professional installation could range from KSh 5,000 to KSh 15,000, depending on the complexity of the setup," it expounded.

Why Ruto asked Starlink to invest in Kenya

Earlier, TUKO.co.ke reported Ruto asked Starlink to invest in Kenya.

Ruto said Starlink's investment has the ability to significantly enhance high-speed connectivity in remote villages and schools countrywide.

The head of state visited the StarLink/SpaceX factory in Los Angeles, United States and urged the organisation to work towards reducing the cost of internet access in the country.

Proofreading by Asher Omondi, current affairs journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.