Airtel Africa Partners With SpaceX to Expand Satellite Internet Across Africa

Airtel Africa has announced a strategic partnership with SpaceX, owned by billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, to provide satellite-based internet services across Africa using Direct-to-Cell technology.

Under the agreement, Airtel Africa will begin offering satellite internet services to customers with modern smartphones in all 14 African countries where it operates, serving more than 174 million subscribers.

Internet Access Through Satellites

The partnership will allow Airtel customers to access fast and reliable internet in areas without traditional network infrastructure or mobile towers, using Starlink satellites.

The service is expected to launch in 2026, initially supporting selected applications before expanding to broader internet usage.

Advanced Starlink Direct-to-Cell Technology

The agreement also includes support for Starlink Broadband Direct to Cell, a next-generation satellite technology designed to deliver ultra-fast internet directly to smartphones.

This technology is expected to provide internet speeds up to 20 times faster, using advanced low-earth orbit satellites.

Implementation will follow country-specific regulatory frameworks and rollout schedules.

First of Its Kind in Africa

Airtel Africa becomes the first African telecom company to deploy Starlink Direct-to-Cell services, leveraging more than 650 satellites to improve connectivity, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

The partnership strengthens Airtel Africa’s mission to bridge the digital divide and expand high-speed internet access across the continent.

Leadership Reactions

Airtel Africa Chief Executive Officer Sunil Taldar said the partnership reflects the company’s commitment to delivering reliable and high-quality digital services.

“Airtel Africa remains committed to providing our customers with fast, reliable, and accessible internet through innovative technologies,” Taldar said.

Stephanie Bednarek, SpaceX’s Vice President in charge of Starlink’s commercial operations, said the initiative would be transformative.

“For the first time, people in Africa will have access to reliable internet in remote rural areas where traditional networks cannot reach,” she said.

Starlink’s Growing Presence in Africa

Starlink, operated by SpaceX, currently provides internet services in more than 125 countries worldwide, including 18 African nations.

In Rwanda, Starlink services launched in February 2023. By January 2025, the country had recorded more than 3,400 subscribers, according to official data.

The National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) reported that Starlink had 3,448 subscribers in Rwanda by 2023.

In December 2025, African telecommunications firm Paratus Group also announced plans to expand Starlink services to Rwandan businesses, further strengthening satellite internet access in the country.