Starlink introduced interest-free instalment plans for its Mini Kit, significantly reducing upfront costs to make satellite internet more accessible across Zimbabwe.

The company announced two instalment options: a six-month plan costing $25 per month and a nine-month plan at $16.67 per month. Both plans required an initial deposit of $50 and a $23 delivery fee, lowering the initial payment from $223 to $73. Starlink officials stated that the interest-free nature of the plans would likely make the nine-month option the most popular among customers.

Customers were also required to pay a monthly subscription fee of at least $30 after receiving the Mini Kit. Under the nine-month plan, this resulted in a total monthly cost of $46.67. A Starlink representative explained that the new payment plans aimed to address financial barriers faced by many Zimbabweans, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

Starlink kits were reported to be sold out in Harare, nearby towns, and parts of Bulawayo. However, the kits remained available in other parts of the country. Customers could order by visiting Starlink’s website, entering their delivery address, and completing the order form. The company accepted payments through prepaid Mastercard, Visa cards, or virtual Mastercards supported by EcoCash and OMari.

Starlink advised customers to ensure a minimum of $90 was available during the initial payment to account for potential bank charges.

By offering reliable satellite internet, Starlink bridged Zimbabwe’s digital divide, particularly in areas lacking traditional infrastructure. The introduction of instalment plans was described as a transformative step towards making high-speed internet affordable and accessible for a larger segment of the population.