Airtel Africa has entered a strategic partnership with SpaceX’s Starlink to deploy satellite-powered direct-to-cell connectivity across 14 African markets, marking a major milestone in the continent’s digital transformation drive.
The collaboration will enable Airtel Africa to extend mobile network coverage to remote and underserved regions where traditional terrestrial infrastructure is limited or unavailable. By leveraging Starlink’s low-Earth-orbit satellite technology, the initiative aims to provide seamless voice, text, and data services directly to mobile phones without the need for ground-based towers.
According to Airtel Africa, the partnership aligns with its mission to bridge the digital divide and accelerate financial inclusion, education, healthcare access, and economic participation across Africa. The satellite direct-to-cell solution is expected to significantly improve network resilience, especially in rural communities, border regions, and areas prone to infrastructure challenges.
The rollout will span 14 Airtel Africa operating countries, subject to regulatory approvals in each market. Industry analysts say the move positions Airtel Africa at the forefront of next-generation connectivity on the continent, while reinforcing Starlink’s growing footprint in Africa’s telecom ecosystem.
The partnership also supports Africa’s broader goals of universal broadband access, digital inclusion, and technological innovation, as satellite connectivity increasingly becomes a viable solution to last-mile network challenges.
Further details on rollout timelines and supported services are expected to be announced in the coming months.