Airtel Africa has entered into a strategic agreement with SpaceX to deploy Starlink Direct-to-Cell satellite connectivity across its 14 African markets, including Nigeria.
The telecom operator announced the partnership on Tuesday, describing it as a significant milestone in its efforts to extend mobile network coverage to remote and underserved communities across the continent.
Through the collaboration, Airtel Africa subscribers using compatible smartphones will be able to connect directly to Starlink satellites in areas where traditional terrestrial mobile infrastructure is unavailable. The initiative is expected to strengthen network access for Airtel Africa’s more than 174 million customers.
Airtel Africa said the satellite-to-mobile service is expected to commence in 2026, subject to regulatory approvals in each country where the company operates.
At launch, the Direct-to-Cell service will initially offer:
- Text messaging services
- Limited data access for selected applications
The agreement also includes Starlink’s first broadband Direct-to-Cell platform, which will be powered by next-generation satellites designed to deliver enhanced performance and reliability.
According to Airtel Africa, the upgraded system could deliver data speeds up to 20 times faster than earlier satellite-based mobile connectivity solutions.
Executive Comments on the Partnership
Speaking on the agreement, Airtel Africa Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Sunil Taldar said the collaboration would significantly improve service reach across the company’s African footprint.
“Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell technology complements our terrestrial infrastructure and extends coverage to locations where deploying conventional mobile networks is difficult. This partnership sets a new benchmark for service availability across our 14 markets,” Taldar said.
Also commenting, Starlink Vice President of Sales Stephanie Bednarek said the initiative would bring reliable connectivity to communities currently beyond the reach of terrestrial networks.
“For the first time, people across Africa will remain connected in remote areas where traditional coverage cannot reach. This next-generation technology will also enable high-speed broadband access and better access to essential digital services,” she said.
Airtel Africa Becomes First to Deploy Starlink Direct-to-Cell in Africa
With this agreement, Airtel Africa becomes the first mobile network operator in Africa to deploy Starlink Direct-to-Cell services.
The solution will be supported by a constellation of roughly 650 satellites, enabling mobile connectivity in regions where building or maintaining traditional network infrastructure is either challenging or cost-prohibitive.
Both companies stressed that the satellite service is designed to complement existing terrestrial networks rather than replace them, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach locations.
Advancing Digital Inclusion Across the Continent
Airtel Africa said it plans to explore further collaboration opportunities with SpaceX as part of its broader strategy to accelerate digital inclusion across Africa.
The company added that the Starlink Direct-to-Cell initiative aligns with its long-term objectives of expanding coverage, improving service reliability, and ensuring inclusive access to digital connectivity for underserved communities throughout the continent.
