The Nairobi City County Government has since laid a parallel internet link using the Starlink satellite technology, greatly improving service delivery at the county. The development is expected to transform the customer experience at the City Hall Customer Service Centre, with the satellite internet connection speed ranging from 120 to 200 Mbps.
Ensuring Network Redundancy with Starlink
Tiras Njoroge, Chief Officer for ICT Infrastructure, emphasized the importance of this new Starlink-powered network redundancy. This system will ensure uninterrupted operation of essential services even in the event of a primary network failure, providing a seamless and reliable experience for county residents who rely on Nairobi’s digital services.
“We are excited to announce the integration of Starlink satellite technology into our Customer Service Centre, aimed at improving service delivery for Nairobi residents,” Njoroge stated. “This upgrade offers faster and more reliable access to systems like Nairobi Pay.”
Advancing Nairobi's Digital Transformation with Starlink
The implementation of Starlink aligns with Governor Johnson Sakaja’s manifesto, which prioritizes the use of advanced technology to streamline government operations. By introducing this cutting-edge infrastructure, the County Government is enhancing service delivery and supporting its digital transformation initiatives.
Truphena Ogonda, the County Director of ICT Infrastructure, expressed her enthusiasm for the Starlink enhancement, highlighting its ability to handle larger data volumes efficiently. “This redundancy will help us expand e-government services and further our shift toward fully digital service provision,” Ogonda remarked.
The Expansion of Starlink in Kenya
Starlink is rapidly gaining popularity in Kenya, with a sharp rise in subscribers. Since its launch in July 2023, the number of Starlink users in the country has increased from 405 to 1,354 within just two months, and as of March 2024, the user base has grown to 4,808.
There are also growing speculations about Starlink establishing a ground station in Kenya, which would significantly improve internet latency for local users. Currently, the nearest Starlink ground station is located in Nigeria.