POTRAZ imposes licences on trading of Starlink kit
By Staff Reporter
The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) has imposed licences on telecoms service providers and dealers who intend to sell Starlink User Terminals (kits) in the country, which recently licensed Elon Musk’s company to roll out the global internet service in its territory.
This comes after the satellite internet service’s entry onto Zimbabwe’s telecoms space has opened up fresh business opportunities for dealers as more locals seek connectivity on the global platform.
In a statement, POTRAZ Director General Gift Kallisto Machengete announced it was illegal for companies and individuals to sell Starlink equipment without a licence.
“It is a condition of the Starlink licences that such agencies, dealers and ISPs shall be subject to clearance by POTRAZ,” he said.
“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.”
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe’s government has introduced hefty fines of up to $5,000 for poor service in the country’s telecommunications industry.
In a statement Tuesday, ICT Minister Tatenda Mavetera said the government will levy fines of between $200 and $5,000 per infringement for telecommunications companies and internet providers who fail to give reliable service.
