Safaricom Refutes Claims of Starlink Mpesa Payment Ban Amid Regulatory Scrutiny
Telecom giant Safaricom PLC has dismissed rumors circulating on social media that it has stopped allowing Starlink Internet payments through Mpesa.
This clarification comes after some users on X alleged that Safaricom had discontinued Starlink internet payments via the Mpesa service.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Safaricom affirmed that the option remains available and encouraged customers experiencing difficulties to contact the company.
“This information is incorrect; the option is still available. Please get in touch with us if you encounter any issues,” Safaricom emphasized.
Starlink, a satellite-based internet service, was developed by SpaceX, a private aerospace and space transportation company founded by Elon Musk, the owner of X.
Unlike Safaricom’s internet, which depends on undersea cables prone to damage and outages, Starlink utilizes satellites for its connectivity.
Safaricom has recently faced scrutiny after requesting the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) to review its decision to grant a license to Starlink internet providers.
The telecom firm urged the regulator to evaluate the risks associated with allowing satellite internet providers to operate independently without partnerships with local companies.
“Satellite service providers should only be permitted to operate under the license rights of a local licensee rather than being granted a license independently,” a section of Safaricom’s memo stated.
In response, the CA noted that Safaricom is entitled to voice its regulatory concerns about independent satellite providers like Starlink.
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“Service providers or licensees have the right to bring any market issues to the attention of the ICT regulator,” CA responded.
The regulator also emphasized that it conducts independent reviews of such issues within its regulatory framework and responds accordingly.
“The Authority conducts independent examinations of these matters within its regulatory framework and addresses them appropriately. This is a standard procedure as the Authority aims to foster the growth of the dynamic and rapidly evolving ICT sector,” the statement added.
Some leaders, including Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata, have defended Starlink, praising its impressive internet speeds compared to Safaricom’s slower and less reliable service.
“The government should disregard Safaricom’s concerns. Murang’a has automated its healthcare services, and Safaricom’s internet speed frequently drops. Sometimes it’s as low as 4.7Mbps, while Starlink’s new speeds reach 100 Mbps. This difference is critical in saving lives, and Starlink’s service isn’t affected by the weather,” Kang’ata commented.
Safaricom Refutes Claims of Starlink Mpesa Payment Ban Amid Regulatory Scrutiny
