President William Ruto on Saturday, September 17, urged Starlink to consider reducing the cost of internet services in the country.
In a statement on Sunday, Ruto expressed his appreciation to the Elon Musk-owned internet provider noting that its presence in Kenya presents an opportunity to achieve universal internet services.
Further, Ruto who visited Starlink’s factory in Los Angeles noted that Starlink’s investment in Kenya will help to unlock the full potential in the digital economy by enhancing internet connectivity in remote villages.
“Visited StarLink/SpaceX factory in Los Angeles, United States; urged the organization to work towards reducing the cost of internet access in the country,” Ruto stated.
Moreover, Ruto’s visit came months after Stalink announced its partnership with Karibu Connect to provide Starlink’s internet services in Kenya.
“Thank you, Elon Musk, for your vision and commitment to global connectivity. Encouraged to see the collaboration with Kenya’s Karibu Connect. Together, we are on the cusp of a more connected and innovative future,” he added.
Companies Ruto Visited
In addition to Starlink, the President also met Apple’s Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook in San Francisco.
During the meeting, Apple committed to working with the Government in supporting the growth of Kenya’s innovation and start-up ecosystem.
Also Read: Boost for MPESA as Ruto Announces Lucrative Deal in US
Ruto also met Nicholas Weinstock, the President of Invention Studios which specializes in film creation.
According to the President, they explored the possibility of American filmmakers filming in Kenya to create employment opportunities and grow Kenya’s film industry.
Further, Ruto held discussions with Grammy Global Venture CEO Harvey Mason Jr. and President Panos Panay, where he advocated for the Grammy Africa Academy Headquarters to be hosted in Nairobi.
The meetings are part of the president’s agenda in his week-long stay in the United States ahead of the upcoming United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
Also Read: President Ruto Flies to the US for High-Level Talks
Accompanying him is a delegation featuring Adan Mohamed, a member of his Economic Advisors Council, Equity Bank’s CEO James Mwangi, among others.
In addition, Ruto’s delegation is working closely with US Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman and her team.