The decision "is expected to result in the deployment
of high speed, low cost, LEO (low-Earth-orbit) internet infrastructure
throughout Zimbabwe and particularly in all the rural areas," Mnangagwa
said in a statement.
He said Starlink will provide services through its sole and
exclusive local partner, IMC Communications.
A World Bank report in 2021 said only 34.8% of Zimbabwe’s
population had access to the internet.
The country’s internet service is dominated by three major
mobile network operators.
The Starlink approval comes amid a government crackdown on
unregistered users smuggling Starlink kits from neighbouring countries like
Zambia.
Starlink is currently officially offered in various African
nations, including Nigeria, Mozambique, Zambia, Kenya, and Malawi.
Last month, Cameroon ordered the seizure of Starlink
equipment at the country’s ports of entry as the provider was not licensed. Reuters