Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, is now live in Liberia, promising faster and more reliable connectivity. While this is a significant step forward for the country’s digital infrastructure, the cost of accessing this service raises concerns for the average Liberian household. Considering the $390 one-time cost of the hardware and $40 monthly subscription.
Starlink’s Residential Lite plan starts at $40 per month, with the standard residential plan priced at $50 per month. Setting up the service requires an upfront hardware investment of $200 for the Mini package or $390 for the standard option. Compared to current internet services, these prices are considered steep for most Liberians, where affordability remains a major hurdle in accessing technology.
It’s worth noting that Starlink depends on electricity to function, adding another layer of expense and accessibility issues for households without consistent power supply. While the service offers undeniable speed and reliability, its pricing model may limit its reach to a small segment of the population.
The question remains: how can innovative solutions like Starlink balance technological advancement with affordability to ensure they truly benefit the broader Liberian society?
