Airtel Africa Plc has entered into a strategic partnership with SpaceX to roll out Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell satellite connectivity across its African operations, including Nigeria, in a move expected to significantly expand mobile network coverage in underserved and remote areas.
The agreement will allow Airtel subscribers to connect directly to Starlink’s low-Earth-orbit satellites using standard mobile phones, eliminating the need for traditional ground-based telecom infrastructure in areas with limited or no network coverage.
Under the deal, the satellite-to-cell service will be deployed across 14 African markets where Airtel Africa operates, reaching an estimated 174 million customers. The companies said the service will complement existing terrestrial networks by filling coverage gaps along highways, rural communities, border regions, and hard-to-reach locations.
The rollout is expected to begin in 2026, subject to regulatory approvals in individual countries. Initial services will focus on text messaging and basic data connectivity, with plans to introduce enhanced mobile broadband services in later phases.
Nigeria, one of Airtel Africa’s largest markets, is expected to benefit significantly from the initiative, particularly in rural areas where building telecom infrastructure has remained challenging. Analysts say the service could improve access to essential digital services such as mobile banking, education, healthcare, and emergency communications.
Commenting on the development, Airtel Africa Chief Executive Officer Sunil Taldar said the partnership underscores the company’s commitment to expanding connectivity across the continent and ensuring inclusive access to digital services.
SpaceX, through its Starlink division, described the collaboration as a major step toward extending reliable mobile connectivity to regions that have historically been difficult to serve using conventional networks.
The deal positions Airtel Africa among the early adopters of satellite-to-mobile technology in Africa, highlighting the growing role of space-based infrastructure in closing connectivity gaps and supporting digital inclusion across the continent.
