Amazon vs Starlink
Starlink and Amazon are battling for Kenya's digital future, with Amazon applying for its first ground gateway in Africa.
TECH NEWS
GG
7/2/20261 min read
Starlink is currently available and proven for Kenyan users. Amazon Leo (formerly Project Kuiper) is applying for licenses to build its first African satellite gateway in Kenya. Starlink offers instant internet today, while Amazon promises faster future speeds but is still building its network.
Starlink
Availability: Live and fully operational in Kenya.
Speed: 50–250 Mbps downloads, depending on your location and network.
Cost: Packages start at roughly Sh6,500 per month for standard residential use.
Setup: Uses a personal dish ("terminal kit") that you place outside with a clear view of the sky.
Amazon Leo
Availability: Currently testing and building its network. It is not yet available for public use.
Speed: Promises standard download speeds up to 400 Mbps.
Cost: Pricing has not been announced.
Setup: Amazon plans to build a major satellite ground station in Kenya to help route internet traffic super fast.
Simple Analogy: Think of Starlink as an established bus line that is already driving passengers to work today. Think of Amazon Leo as a new high-speed rail line that is still being built. It promises a faster ride once finished, but you cannot buy a ticket just yet.