Zimbabwe has officially granted an operating license to Starlink, the satellite internet service provider owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, to operate in the country.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa announced this development on Saturday.

Last month, Starlink’s operation was suspended until it obtained licensing approval from the country’s telecommunications regulator.

To operate in the southern African country, the regulator proposed two options: the company can either apply directly for a license or collaborate with a registered public network within the country to offer its services.

In his statement, Mnangagwa said that the licensing of Starlink reflects his administration’s dedication to creating an environment that encourages investment in technology.

What the president said:

” I’m pleased to announce that I have approved the licensing of Starlink by POTRAZ to provide advanced internet and related digital processing services in Zimbabwe through its sole and exclusive local partner, IMC Communications (Pvt) Ltd,”

“The entry by Starlink in the digital telecommunications space in Zimbabwe is expected to result in the deployment of high speed, low cost, LEO internet infrastructure throughout Zimbabwe and particularly in all the rural areas. This will be in fulfilment of my Administration’s undertaking to leave no one and no place behind,” he said.

He said the investment confidence expressed by Starlink in Zimbabwe’s telecommunications infrastructure aligns with the Second Republic’s mantra, “Zimbabwe is open for business.”

He encouraged more investment by foreign conglomerates in Zimbabwe, emphasizing that the country is an investment destination of choice.