Joy Agwunobi
Airtel Africa has taken a major step toward bridging the digital divide across the continent by entering into a key partnership with SpaceX to deploy Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell satellite connectivity across its 14 operational markets, including Nigeria.
The collaboration positions Airtel Africa as the first mobile network operator in Africa to introduce this cutting-edge technology to its 174 million-strong customer base.
Under the agreement, Airtel subscribers with compatible smartphones will be able to connect directly to Starlink satellites in areas that lack terrestrial mobile coverage. The service is designed to deliver reliable connectivity in remote or underserved regions where building conventional network infrastructure is either costly or logistically challenging.
The initial rollout is scheduled for 2026 and will focus on enabling text messaging and access to select data applications. Subsequent phases will introduce Starlink’s advanced broadband Direct-to-Cell capabilities, offering high-speed connectivity with up to 20 times faster data speeds directly to standard smartphones. Implementation in each market will proceed in line with local regulatory approvals.
Sunil Taldar, managing director and chief executive officer of Airtel Africa, emphasized the transformative potential of the partnership, stating, “Airtel Africa remains committed to delivering exceptional experiences to our customers by enhancing access to reliable and continuous mobile connectivity. Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell technology complements our terrestrial networks, enabling service in areas where traditional deployment is challenging. We are excited to collaborate with Starlink to set a new benchmark for connectivity across all 14 markets.”
From the SpaceX side, Stephanie Bednarek, vice president of sales at Starlink, highlighted the broader impact of the initiative: “For the first time, communities across Africa will stay connected in remote regions that were previously unreachable. Starlink Direct-to-Cell allows us to deliver high-speed broadband connectivity directly to mobile devices, enabling faster access to critical services and bridging long-standing digital gaps.”
Analysts say this partnership could redefine mobile network expansion in Africa, particularly in rural areas, by combining satellite and terrestrial networks to ensure seamless coverage. For Airtel Africa, the deal reinforces its strategy of leveraging innovative technologies to enhance customer experience and broaden digital inclusion across the continent.
With millions of Africans still living in areas with limited network coverage, the collaboration with SpaceX signals a significant leap toward universal connectivity, potentially reshaping how mobile services are delivered and accessed in Africa.
