Airtel Africa Is First Operator in Africa to Commercially Launch Starlink

Airtel Africa and Starlink have launched a satellite-to-mobile service in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), marking the first commercial deployment of its kind in Africa. This new service enables Airtel customers using compatible smartphones to access connectivity in areas beyond the reach of traditional mobile networks, provided they have a clear view of the sky.

Starlink, which operates the world's largest satellite-to-mobile constellation with 650 satellites, supports light-data applications such as WhatsApp messaging and SMS. Users do not need specialized equipment or a separate device. The launch follows a strategic partnership announced in December 2025 and successful testing of Starlink's mobile data and messaging services in Kenya in March 2026. The DRC is the initial market for this commercial rollout.

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The first-ever commercial launch of Starlink Mobile in Africa is a significant milestone for Airtel Africa through our partnership with SpaceX. By combining Airtel's terrestrial network with Starlink's satellite technology, we are extending essential connectivity beyond the limits of conventional mobile infrastructure. The DRC is leading this important development, and the experience gained here will support the progressive expansion of the service across our markets, subject to country-specific regulatory approvals.

Airtel Africa CEO Sunil Taldar described the launch as a significant milestone, stating, "By combining Airtel's terrestrial network with Starlink's satellite technology, we are extending essential connectivity beyond the limits of conventional mobile infrastructure." He noted that the DRC is pioneering this development, and the experience gained will facilitate the service's expansion across other Airtel markets, pending regulatory approvals.

Airtel DRC Managing Director Theirry Diasnoma emphasized the service's importance for extending connectivity across the DRC's vast geography. "Our country's size and geography mean that many people live, work and travel beyond the reach of conventional mobile infrastructure," Diasnoma said. "This service provides an additional layer of connectivity, helping customers remain reachable, informed and connected even in areas where terrestrial coverage is unavailable." The service is expected to benefit individuals and organizations in remote areas, including those in logistics, humanitarian aid, healthcare, agriculture, and mining, as well as providing crucial communication during emergencies.

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The commercial launch of Starlink Mobile is an important step in extending essential connectivity across the DRC. Our country's size and geography mean that many people live, work and travel beyond the reach of conventional mobile infrastructure. This service provides an additional layer of connectivity, helping customers remain reachable, informed and connected even in areas where terrestrial coverage is unavailable.