Starlink’s Soaring Demand Strains Kenyan Internet Speeds
Elon Musk’s satellite internet venture, Starlink, has rapidly ascended in Kenya’s digital landscape since its July 2023 debut. Promising high-speed connectivity, the service initially delivered download speeds exceeding 200 Mbps. However, a recent surge in demand has led to a significant decline in performance, with average speeds plummeting to 47 Mbps by March 2025 .
This downturn has positioned Kenya as the second-slowest Starlink market in Africa, trailing only Madagascar. The unexpected drop in speeds is attributed to network saturation, prompting Starlink to halt new subscriptions in Nairobi and surrounding counties to manage the strain on its infrastructure .
Navigating the Challenges of Rapid Expansion
Starlink’s swift growth in Kenya is noteworthy. By December 2024, the company had amassed over 19,000 subscribers, securing a 1.1% share of the national internet market and ranking as the seventh-largest ISP in the country . Despite this impressive expansion, the service’s infrastructure has struggled to keep pace with the escalating demand.
To address latency issues, Starlink inaugurated a new Point of Presence (PoP) in Nairobi in early 2025. This development aimed to reduce latency from previous averages of 120ms to as low as 26ms for Kenyan users . While this move has improved response times, it hasn’t fully resolved the bandwidth challenges posed by the growing user base.
User Experiences: A Mixed Bag
Kenyan users have reported a spectrum of experiences with Starlink. Some rural users have praised the service for providing consistent speeds between 150 Mbps and 250 Mbps, a significant improvement over previous options . However, others have voiced concerns over high latency, particularly affecting activities like online gaming and real-time video conferencing .
Additionally, the service’s performance appears to be influenced by environmental factors. Users have noted that weather conditions, such as heavy rain, can disrupt connectivity, and physical obstructions like trees or buildings can impede the satellite signal .
The Road Ahead: Balancing Growth and Quality
Starlink’s ambitious entry into Kenya’s internet market underscores the potential of satellite-based connectivity in bridging digital divides. However, the recent challenges highlight the importance of scaling infrastructure in tandem with user growth. As the company continues to expand its presence, ensuring consistent service quality will be crucial in maintaining user trust and satisfaction.
For Kenyan consumers, the evolving landscape offers both opportunities and challenges. While Starlink provides an alternative to traditional ISPs, especially in underserved areas, users must weigh the benefits against potential limitations in speed and reliability.
