Aura Group secures Starlink retailer licence in Zimbabwe
Aura Group has officially entered the high-speed internet sector in Zimbabwe after receiving a retailer licence for SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service.
Aura Group has officially entered the high-speed internet sector in Zimbabwe after receiving a retailer licence for SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service. Under the visionary leadership of its Chief Executive Officer, Mr Samuel Dimairho, Aura Group has expressed a strong commitment to enhancing connectivity for businesses and institutions within the country.
According to The Zimbabwe Mail, Mr Dimairho stated the company’s enthusiasm for steering a technological shift aimed at empowering Zimbabwean enterprises to thrive in the evolving digital landscape. “We are excited to lead this technological shift, empowering Zimbabwean businesses to thrive in the digital economy,” he stated, emphasising the vital role of improved internet access.
Starlink, which commenced operations in 2020, has swiftly established a global presence by delivering high-speed, low-latency satellite internet to populations in underserved areas. Zimbabwe, facing challenges related to rural connectivity, stands to gain immensely from the introduction of this innovative technology. By facilitating access to Starlink, Aura Group plans to bridge existing digital divides and significantly improve connectivity within essential sectors, including finance, agriculture, and education.
On 6 September 2024, the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) awarded Starlink Zimbabwe (Pvt) Ltd two licences: one for telecommunications network services and another as a national Internet Service Provider. This dual licensing empowers Starlink to deliver internet services throughout Zimbabwe via its Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network.
In conjunction with this development, the regulatory authority has issued a cautionary notice underscoring that the sale or distribution of Starlink user terminals without proper authorisation is a criminal offence. The introduction of Starlink marks a significant milestone in Zimbabwe’s digital evolution, propelling economic advancement and facilitating greater integration into the global digital economy.
Aura Group’s partnership with Starlink represents a pivotal movement towards modernising Zimbabwe’s internet infrastructure and enhancing the overall connectivity landscape, ultimately fostering development across various sectors.
