Airtel Africa and SpaceX have unveiled an initiative to deliver satellite-based mobile connectivity across Africa, bringing Starlink Direct-to-Cell services to the continent for the first time on a large scale.
Beginning in 2026, the service will allow millions of Airtel subscribers to send texts and access data in regions without conventional mobile network coverage, with new satellites promising speeds up to 20 times faster than current satellite solutions.
The collaboration, announced in Dubai on December 16, 2025, integrates Starlink’s satellite technology into Airtel Africa’s mobile infrastructure, extending service to areas where building standard networks is costly or technically difficult.
Airtel Africa serves around 173.8 million customers across 14 countries, making it the ideal partner to deploy this revolutionary connectivity solution.
Customers with compatible smartphones will be able to connect directly to Starlink satellites when outside the reach of mobile towers. The first phase of the rollout will focus on text messaging and data for selected applications, with a gradual expansion as regulatory approvals are secured in each market.
The agreement also supports Starlink’s debut broadband Direct-to-Cell system, designed to offer substantially improved performance. The companies say the service will enable high-speed data on standard smartphones, reaching speeds up to 20 times faster than earlier satellite-to-mobile technologies.
Airtel Africa will become the first mobile operator in Africa to provide Starlink Direct-to-Cell services. The network will be powered by more than 650 satellites, delivering continuous connectivity to hard-to-reach and underserved regions.
Airtel Africa Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Sunil Taldar emphasized that the partnership reflects the company’s commitment to enhancing mobile services for customers.
“Airtel Africa remains committed to delivering great experience to our customers by improving access to reliable and contiguous mobile connectivity solutions,” he said. “Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell technology complements the terrestrial infrastructure and even reaches areas where deploying terrestrial network solutions are challenging.”
Stephanie Bednarek, Starlink Vice President of Sales, said the collaboration would open new opportunities for millions of Africans.
“For the first time, people across Africa will stay connected in remote areas where terrestrial coverage cannot reach,” she said, noting that the service would also deliver next-generation technology capable of providing high-speed broadband and faster access to essential services.
Both companies plan to explore additional collaboration opportunities to further advance digital access and inclusion across the continent.
