Airtel Africa has announced a strategic partnership with SpaceX to roll out Starlink’s direct-to-cell satellite technology across all 14 African countries in which the telecoms group operates.
The company confirmed on Tuesday that the satellite-to-mobile service is expected to launch in 2026. In its initial phase, the service will support text messaging and data access for selected applications on compatible smartphones.
The move positions Airtel Africa at the forefront of next-generation mobile connectivity on the continent, particularly in rural and underserved regions where traditional network infrastructure is limited or non-existent.
Mobile Connectivity Without Towers
Under the agreement, Airtel Africa customers will be able to connect directly to Starlink satellites when outside terrestrial network coverage. This eliminates the need for mobile towers in remote locations, allowing standard smartphones to access satellite-based mobile services.
The partnership also includes support for Starlink’s first broadband direct-to-cell system, which will rely on next-generation satellites. Airtel Africa says these satellites will be capable of delivering data speeds up to 20 times faster than earlier satellite-to-mobile solutions.
Starlink’s technology is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing mobile networks, meaning users will not need specialised satellite phones or external hardware.
Starlink’s Growing Footprint in Africa
The deal marks another significant step in Starlink’s rapid expansion across Africa. Elon Musk’s satellite internet service has been steadily entering new markets, targeting regions where broadband access remains limited.
Most recently, Starlink launched operations in São Tomé and Príncipe, making the island nation the 26th African country with access to the service. Across the continent, Starlink has been promoted as a solution for connectivity challenges in remote, rural and infrastructure-poor areas.
Globally, Starlink has demonstrated its strategic value in crisis situations, including in Ukraine, where satellite connectivity helped maintain communications after parts of the country’s infrastructure were damaged during the war.
Regulatory Hurdles in South Africa
Despite its momentum elsewhere, Starlink’s rollout in South Africa remains stalled due to regulatory challenges. The country’s Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) rules require at least 30% local ownership for telecommunications operators, a condition that conflicts with SpaceX’s ownership structure.
In an effort to address this, the South African government recently issued a directive aimed at allowing Starlink and other satellite internet providers to operate without ceding ownership. However, a parliamentary committee overseeing the telecommunications sector has since recommended that the directive be withdrawn, adding fresh uncertainty to Starlink’s prospects in the country.
A Potential Game-Changer for African Connectivity
For Airtel Africa, the partnership represents a major technological leap. By combining its existing mobile footprint with Starlink’s satellite network, the company aims to close coverage gaps and extend connectivity to millions of people currently beyond the reach of mobile networks.
As Africa continues to grapple with uneven digital access, direct-to-cell satellite technology could reshape how connectivity is delivered — not just as a backup solution, but as a core part of the mobile ecosystem.
With a 2026 launch timeline, attention will now turn to regulatory approvals, device compatibility, and how quickly the service can scale once it goes live.
