POTRAZ Confirms Types of Licenses Issued to Starlink and the Fees Paid to Operate in Zimbabwe
The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) has finally lifted the veil on the type of licences granted to Starlink and how much the Elon Musk-led company paid for them.
This comes as excitement sweeps across Zimbabwe following Starlink’s official launch just before midnight last Friday. Many have been buzzing about the potential impact of the new internet service provider, while others speculated on the nature of the licences granted by POTRAZ and the associated costs.
Also read: “This Is Personal”: Starlink Executive Shares License Experience With The Zimbabwe Officials
POTRAZ Reveals Types of Licences Issued to Starlink in Zimbabwe
In a statement released on Monday, POTRAZ Director General Dr Gift Machengete confirmed that Starlink Zimbabwe (Pvt) Ltd received two key licences: the Telecommunication Licence for Network Services and the Internet Services Provider (National) Licence.
“On Friday the 6th of September 2024, the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) issued two licences to STARLINK ZIMBABWE (Pvt) Ltd, namely the Telecommunication Licence for Network Services and the Internet Services Provider (National) Licence,” part of the statement reads.
Also read: “He Brings Nothing To The Table!”: Details Of Why Starlink Rejected The Partnership Deal With Wicknell Chivayo Emerge
How Much Starlink Paid to be Licenced in Zimbabwe
According to POTRAZ’s fee schedule, the Telecommunication Licence costs US$525,000, while the Internet Services Provider Licence is priced at US$50,000. Additionally, firms must pay an annual fee of 3.5% of their audited gross turnover, plus VAT.
Also read: Dandemutande’s Role as Starlink Reseller in Zimbabwe Sparks Questions Over Pricing and Accessibility
POTRAZ Warns Individuals and Companies Against Selling Starlink Kits
With these licences, Starlink is authorised to provide internet services across Zimbabwe using its Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation. Dr Machengete further elaborated that Starlink will collaborate with licensed agencies and established players for the distribution of its user kits.
“This Licence-stack authorises STARLINK to provide Internet Services throughout Zimbabwe using the STARLINK Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Satellite Constellation. In providing Internet Services in Zimbabwe, STARLINK is engaging Agencies, including established Network Operators and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) for the distribution of User Terminals (kits) and as appropriate, the provision of managed end-user services,” Dr Machengete added.
Dr Machengete also emphasised that it is illegal for unlicensed companies or individuals to sell or distribute Starlink kits.
“It is a condition of the STARLINK Licences that such Agencies, Dealers and ISPs shall be subject to clearance by POTRAZ. This condition applies to both existing and prospective ISPs and Network Operators. The sale or distribution of STARLINK User Terminals without appropriate licensing and clearance is, therefore, an offence punishable by law,” he said.
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