Wedoany.com Report-Dec.22, Airtel Africa has partnered with SpaceX to introduce Starlink's direct-to-cell satellite connectivity across its 14 markets in Africa, as announced on December 16, 2025. This collaboration positions Airtel Africa as the first mobile network operator on the continent to provide this service.

The satellite-to-mobile offering is scheduled to launch in 2026, starting with support for text messaging and data access for certain applications. Customers equipped with compatible smartphones will gain connectivity in areas lacking traditional ground-based network coverage.

The agreement encompasses backing for Starlink's initial broadband direct-to-cell network, utilizing advanced satellites designed to deliver high-speed connections to mobile devices, featuring data speeds up to 20 times faster than previous versions.

This development follows a prior arrangement from May 2025, through which Airtel Africa began providing Starlink's standard internet services in nine markets, such as Nigeria, Zambia, Chad, Kenya, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, Malawi, Niger, and Madagascar.

Sunil Taldar, Managing Director and CEO of Airtel Africa, stated: "Airtel Africa remains committed to delivering great experience to our customers by improving access to reliable and contiguous mobile connectivity solutions. Starlink's Direct-to-Cell technology complements the terrestrial infrastructure and even reaches areas where deploying terrestrial network solutions are challenging.

"We are very excited about the collaboration with Starlink, which will establish a new standard for service availability across all our 14 markets.”

Leveraging around 650 specialized satellites, the service aims to ensure uninterrupted connectivity for users in distant locations. Airtel Africa emphasized its dedication to reducing the digital gap, with both entities planning to pursue additional joint efforts to promote broader digital access.

Stephanie Bednarek, Vice President of Sales at Starlink, commented: "For the first time, people across Africa will stay connected in remote areas where terrestrial coverage cannot reach, and we're so thrilled that Starlink Direct to Cell can power this life-changing service.

"Through this agreement with Airtel Africa, we’ll also deliver our next-generation technology to offer high-speed broadband connectivity, which will offer faster access to many essential services."

Rollout in individual countries will depend on obtaining necessary regulatory approvals from local authorities.