IMC Communications, the company chosen to spearhead Starlink’s rollout in the country, has appointed seasoned tech leader Denny Marandure as its Managing Director.

Marandure: A Proven Leader for Starlink's Zimbabwe Launch

Marandure brings a wealth of experience to the table, having held key positions at industry giants like Liquid Intelligent Technologies and ZOL (now Liquid Home). His proven track record, particularly his successful leadership in rolling out Zimbabwe’s fiber-to-the-home services at ZOL, makes him a perfect fit for this crucial role.

“We are thrilled to have Denny on board,” said IMC Communications in a statement. “His passion, leadership qualities, and extensive experience in the internet service sector make him uniquely qualified to oversee Starlink’s rollout in Zimbabwe.”

Starlink: A Game Changer for Achieving Vision 2030

The appointment comes on the heels of a major announcement in May, where President Emmerson Mnangagwa officially named IMC Communications as Starlink’s exclusive local partner. This collaboration is expected to be a game changer for Zimbabwe’s internet landscape, playing a pivotal role in achieving the country’s ambitious Vision 2030 goals, which emphasize a thriving digital economy.

Intrigue Surrounds IMC Amidst Industry Competition

While the potential of Starlink is undeniable, some intrigue surrounds IMC. A relatively unknown player in the tech space prior to the announcement, the company’s ties to businessman Wicknell Chivayo have raised eyebrows.

Additionally, another local ISP, Dandemutande, previously claimed an agreement with Starlink, further adding to the pre-launch buzz.

Starlink Faces Growing Competition in Africa

The arrival of Starlink in Zimbabwe comes at a time of intensifying competition in the satellite internet market. Distributors like Paratus in Zambia and Mozambique, and Karibu Connect in Kenya, are already established players. Furthermore, Liquid Intelligent Technologies’ recent partnership with Eutelsat Group to distribute Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite services across Africa presents a direct challenge to Starlink, especially for business customers.

Eyes on the Prize: A New Era for Internet Access in Zimbabwe

The appointment of Marandure and the impending rollout of Starlink kits mark a significant development for Zimbabwe. Industry observers are keeping a close eye on how Starlink will impact competition and internet accessibility within the country.