Airtel Africa has announced a strategic partnership with SpaceX’s Starlink to roll out satellite-enabled direct-to-cell connectivity across 14 African countries, marking a significant step toward expanding digital inclusion on the continent.
The collaboration aims to bridge longstanding coverage gaps by enabling mobile connectivity in remote and underserved areas where traditional terrestrial infrastructure is limited or unavailable. By leveraging Starlink’s low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network, Airtel Africa plans to enhance network resilience and extend reliable mobile services to millions of users beyond the reach of conventional cell towers.
Under the agreement, Starlink’s satellite technology will integrate with Airtel Africa’s mobile networks to support direct-to-cell services, allowing compatible mobile devices to connect via satellite without the need for specialized equipment. This approach is expected to improve access to voice, messaging, and data services, particularly in rural communities and hard-to-reach locations.
Airtel Africa stated that the partnership aligns with its broader mission to accelerate digital transformation, support economic growth, and promote social inclusion across its markets. By complementing existing infrastructure with satellite connectivity, the company aims to improve service continuity during network outages and natural disasters, while also enabling new opportunities for education, healthcare, and financial services.
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The initiative reflects a growing trend among telecommunications providers to combine satellite and terrestrial technologies to address connectivity challenges in emerging markets. As deployment progresses across the 14 countries, the partnership is expected to play a pivotal role in narrowing Africa’s digital divide and strengthening the continent’s communications ecosystem.