Editor's Review

Starlink paused new subscriptions for the residential plan in Nairobi and a few regions.

SpaceX founder and CEO Elon Musk has disclosed that Starlink is working to increase its internet capacity in densely populated urban centres in Africa.

This is after Starlink paused new subscriptions for the residential plan in Nairobi and a few regions owing to a network overload.

In a statement on Monday, November 4, Musk noted that the satellite internet provider was working to increase the capacity as soon as possible, adding that there was still significant capacity outside the city centres.

"Starlink is working to increase Internet capacity in dense urban areas in Africa as fast as possible. Please note that there is still significant capacity outside of city centers," Musk remarked.

Among other areas that were affected by the network overload were Thika, Kajiado, Kiambu, Naivasha, Ngong, Machakos and parts of Narok.

Starlink internet connection set-up.

“Nairobi and neighbouring 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 now,” read part of a statement by Starlink.

The company urged those who were applying for new subscriptions to leave their email addresses for notifications on future availability.

"Starlink Residential is not available in your area. Enter your email below to be notified about future availability and product updates," it stated.

Starlink internet has gained popularity in the country in recent months, with many users admiring its high speeds.