Starlink has introduced flexible installment payments for its internet kits in Kenya, a move aimed at making satellite internet more accessible and affordable across the country. The new plan allows Kenyan customers to spread the cost of the hardware over six months instead of paying the full upfront price, a barrier that previously limited access for many households and small businesses.
Previously, the Starlink mini internet kit, which provides satellite broadband without relying on traditional infrastructure, was priced at around KES 27,000 (~$209). This upfront cost was a major challenge for potential users, particularly in rural areas and smaller towns where income levels are lower. Under the new installment program, customers pay an initial KES 6,750 (~$52) plus activation fees and shipping and then make monthly payments of approximately KES 4,500 (~$35) over six months in addition to their regular internet subscription. This flexible approach lowers the financial barrier for many and allows more Kenyans to experience high-speed satellite internet, which is particularly important in areas where reliable connectivity is scarce.
The installment option comes as part of Starlink’s broader strategy to expand its footprint in Kenya. The service first launched in the country in 2023 and has steadily gained traction among users seeking reliable connectivity where fiber or 5G networks are limited. While initial adoption was promising, high hardware costs and subscription fees slowed broader growth. By offering payment flexibility, Starlink hopes to reach price-sensitive customers, including students, remote workers, small business owners, and even rural households that previously could not afford satellite internet.
This move is significant for Kenya’s digital landscape. Satellite internet like Starlink provides a reliable alternative to traditional broadband, especially in regions where laying fiber or upgrading mobile networks is challenging or costly. Greater adoption could improve connectivity for online education, remote work, digital businesses, and even entertainment streaming. Access to fast, reliable internet can also create opportunities for e-commerce, telemedicine, and other digital services that were previously difficult to access in underserved regions.
Experts note that flexible payment schemes are becoming an important tool for technology companies entering emerging markets. For Starlink, this approach could accelerate subscriber growth, improve brand loyalty, and position the company as a more inclusive provider of high-speed internet across East Africa. By lowering the upfront cost barrier, Starlink is enabling more Kenyans to experience its satellite network, bridging the digital divide and promoting economic participation.
While the service remains more expensive than some local broadband options, the combination of Starlink’s speed, reliability, and now flexible financing makes it a viable option for more households and businesses across Kenya. Customers interested in the installment plan can sign up directly through Starlink’s Kenyan portal, select the kit and payment schedule, and begin using the service within days of purchase.
With Kenya now offering flexible Starlink internet kit payments, more people have the opportunity to access reliable satellite broadband, closing the connectivity gap and opening doors to digital opportunities that were previously out of reach. The move highlights Starlink’s commitment to expanding affordable internet access across the country and strengthening Kenya’s digital infrastructure for years to come.
