Starlink resumes subscriptions in Nairobi region after pause

Starlink, the satellite internet service by SpaceX, has resumed new user registrations in Nairobi and nearby counties including Kiambu, Machakos, Kajiado and Murang’a, following a suspension that began in November 2024

The temporary pause was introduced to manage overwhelming demand that had caused network congestion and slower speeds for users in these densely populated areas. With capacity now expanded, the company has re-opened its services to new subscribers.

As reported by The Kenya Times, the company had earlier explained, with too many users were trying to access the Starlink service within Nairobi and there isn’t enough bandwidth to support additional residential or roaming customers at this time.

“Nairobi and neighboring areas are currently at network capacity. This means that too many users are trying to access the Starlink service within Nairobi and there isn’t enough bandwidth to support additional residential or roaming customers at this time,” Starlink said.

“No roaming plans are available in Kenya at this time. Starlink is working to restore service in the disrupted areas and a notification will be sent once the residential plan is back.”

In January 2025, Starlink activated a new ground station in Nairobi to boost local bandwidth and enhance service stability. This move appears to have resolved the prior limitations, with multiple users confirming successful activations in June 2025.

As stated in The Kenya Times, the company has also expanded its footprint in Southern Africa. Lesotho granted Starlink a ten year operating licence in April 2025, following a year-long regulatory process. Under the name Starlink Lesotho (Pty) Ltd, the company will provide high-speed satellite broadband to homes and businesses nationwide.