Starlink Sets April 30th as Cut Off Date for Zimbabwean Users

Zimbabwean users of Starlink, the satellite internet service, have received a follow-up email stating that their service will be disconnected on April 30th, 2024. This announcement comes after an earlier notification regarding the violation of Starlink's Terms of Service due to the lack of regulatory approval in Zimbabwe.

According to the email, Starlink Mobile Service Plans are only valid in designated "Available" regions, as indicated on the Starlink Availability Map. It is considered a violation to operate outside these specified zones. After April 30th, users in Zimbabwe will lose their internet connection, except for accessing their Starlink accounts.

The email also clarifies that the "Mobile – Regional" plans are intended for temporary travel purposes, rather than permanent use. Users who have been using a "Mobile – Regional" plan in Zimbabwe for more than two months, regardless of the country of purchase, are required to either change their account country or return to the original service area. Failure to comply with these instructions will result in a disconnection of service.

While this news is disappointing for Zimbabwean users, the email offers a glimmer of hope for the future. Starlink has expressed its commitment to obtaining regulatory approvals in various countries, including Zimbabwe. The email encourages users to reach out to local information, communications, and technology regulators, as well as relevant ministries, to advocate for Starlink's approval in Zimbabwe. It emphasizes the potential benefits of Starlink, such as improving education, healthcare, and the economy.

The question of whether Starlink will ultimately receive a license in Zimbabwe remains uncertain. Despite ongoing discussions about Starlink's availability in the country for over a year, no definitive decision has been made. If Starlink does secure the necessary license, it has the potential to revolutionize Zimbabwe's communication sector, providing affordable and fast internet access to its citizens.

Many Zimbabwean users relied on Starlink's "Mobile – Regional" plans as an alternative due to the lack of a local internet service license. The two-month time limit for these regional plans was not strictly enforced, allowing Starlink terminals to remain operational in Zimbabwe for extended periods without requiring users to return them to their country of purchase. 

Initially, users expected an immediate disconnection after receiving the first email, leading to speculation that Starlink might ignore the government's request. However, the latest email confirms the impending service cutoff, leaving users uncertain about their future access to Starlink internet. It remains to be seen whether Starlink can swiftly obtain regulatory approval in Zimbabwe or if users will be left with non-functional units.