Mudiwa Furious After Being Asked If the Starlink He Is Using is Licensed in Zimbabwe
Popular Zimbabwean social media personality, Mudiwa, has expressed outrage after facing questions from Zimbabweans regarding the legality of his Starlink internet service.
The saga unfolded on Twitter, where Mudiwa, known for his flamboyant lifestyle and outspoken nature, frequently shares glimpses of his life with his followers.
The controversy began when Mudiwa posted a picture showcasing his Starlink indoor unit and praising its high-speed internet access.
While many Zimbabweans were impressed by the technology, some raised concerns about the legality of using SpaceX’s Starlink service in Zimbabwe, as the regulatory framework for satellite internet is still under development.
Mudiwa, however, did not take kindly to these inquiries. He responded with a series of tweets, accusing those questioning him of being “jealous” and “negative.”
He further claimed that his Starlink service was “fully licensed” and threatened to expose those he suspected of spreading “false information” about him.
This response backfired spectacularly. Instead of silencing the questions, Mudiwa’s outburst fueled further speculation and criticism. Many Zimbabweans pointed out that the regulatory body responsible for licensing internet service providers, the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ), has not yet issued any licenses for Starlink in the country.
Furthermore, some netizens questioned the legitimacy of Mudiwa’s claims of having a license, as POTRAZ typically publishes a list of licensed internet service providers on its website.
No such listing exists for Starlink in Zimbabwe.
Also read: Monica Mutsvangwa’s Son ‘Neville’ Profits From Starlink Even Though It Isn’t Licenced!
The situation has quickly become a hot topic on social media, with Zimbabweans divided on the issue.
While some support Mudiwa, defending his right to privacy and his choice of internet service, others are demanding transparency and accountability.
They argue that if Mudiwa is indeed using Starlink legally, he should have no problem providing proof of his license to silence the speculation.
The controversy surrounding Mudiwa’s Starlink service highlights the complex legal landscape surrounding satellite internet in Zimbabwe.
As the technology becomes more accessible, the need for clear regulations and licensing procedures becomes increasingly important.
It remains to be seen how this saga will unfold and whether Mudiwa will provide any further clarification on the legality of his Starlink service.
While ZiMetro’s at it, it has conducted some investigation and is positive that Starlink satellites, despite not having a regulatory authority licence, are being marketed in Zimbabwe.
A Zimbabwean ICT business ‘Tangwena‘ recently partnered with a Starlink-certified reseller to offer the service through a hassle-free process. Their approach involves navigating international licensing and regulations to provide Starlink legally to Zimbabwean customers.
Although there’s no official endorsement, reports suggest some government agencies, like the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC), have been using Starlink. This likely involves temporary or special arrangements authorized by authorities.
Due to the demand for high-speed internet and the regulatory limbo, a black market for Starlink kits has emerged. Individuals import kits from countries where Starlink is licensed, often activating them outside Zimbabwe and utilizing roaming options.
However, this carries risks like legality concerns, inconsistent service, and potentially inflated prices.
Like Mudiwa, some individuals acquire Starlink kits through various means, including importing them themselves or purchasing them from the black market. This approach also poses legal and service quality risks.
It’s important to note that using Starlink unofficially, including through the black market, is potentially illegal and not recommended. Always ensure you understand the legal context and potential risks before attempting to access the service.
Remember, the regulatory situation is evolving, and official channels for accessing Starlink in Zimbabwe might emerge soon. It’s advisable to stay informed about official updates and avoid risky methods like the black market.
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