Airtel Africa has announced a partnership with SpaceX to introduce Starlink Direct-to-Cell satellite connectivity across all its 14 markets, serving more than 174 million customers on the continent.
Under the agreement, Airtel Africa customers using compatible smartphones will be able to access mobile network services via Starlink satellites in areas without terrestrial network coverage. Starlink operates the world’s largest low-Earth orbit satellite constellation, offering extensive 4G coverage by geographic reach.
The satellite-to-mobile service is expected to launch in 2026, initially supporting data services for selected applications as well as text messaging. The partnership will also support Starlink’s first broadband Direct-to-Cell system, enabled by next-generation satellites capable of delivering up to 20 times faster data speeds compared to earlier technology.
The rollout will be implemented progressively and is subject to regulatory approvals in each of Airtel Africa’s operating countries.
Airtel Africa said the agreement makes it the first mobile network operator on the continent to offer Starlink Direct-to-Cell services. The service will be powered by a constellation of more than 650 satellites, aimed at extending seamless mobile connectivity to remote and underserved areas.
The company said the partnership aligns with its broader strategy to bridge the digital divide by complementing existing terrestrial infrastructure with satellite technology, particularly in regions where network deployment is difficult or uneconomical.
Airtel Africa Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Sunil Taldar, said the collaboration would significantly enhance service availability across the company’s footprint.
“Airtel Africa remains committed to delivering a great experience to our customers by improving access to reliable and contiguous mobile connectivity solutions. Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell technology complements terrestrial infrastructure and reaches areas where deploying network solutions is challenging. We are excited about this collaboration, which will establish a new standard for service availability across our 14 markets,” Taldar said.
Starlink Vice President of Sales, Stephanie Bednarek, said the partnership would transform connectivity for millions of people across the continent.
“For the first time, people across Africa will be able to stay connected in remote areas where terrestrial coverage cannot reach. We are thrilled that Starlink Direct-to-Cell can power this life-changing service. Through our agreement with Airtel Africa, we will also deliver next-generation technology to provide high-speed broadband connectivity, enabling faster access to essential services,” Bednarek said.
Both companies said they will continue exploring additional areas of collaboration to further expand digital inclusion and connectivity across Africa.
