Telecom giant Airtel Africa has signed a landmark agreement with SpaceX to bring Starlink’s high-speed satellite internet services to underserved regions across the African continent, marking a bold step toward advancing digital inclusion and connectivity in hard-to-reach areas.
According to Airtel, SpaceX has already secured operating licenses in nine of the fourteen African countries where Airtel operates, while licensing processes are underway in the remaining five.
Through this collaboration, Starlink’s satellite technology will be integrated into Airtel Africa’s infrastructure to extend internet access to rural communities, schools, health centres, and small businesses that have long faced connectivity challenges.
Beyond providing satellite-based broadband, the companies also plan to use satellite backhaul to strengthen mobile network coverage in remote locations where traditional infrastructure is difficult to deploy.
“This partnership with SpaceX is a significant step to demonstrate our continued commitment to advancing Africa’s digital economy through strategic investments and partnerships,” said Sunil Taldar, CEO of Airtel Africa.
“Next-generation satellite connectivity will ensure that every individual, business, and community have reliable and affordable voice and data connectivity, even in the most remote parts of Africa.”
For SpaceX, the partnership grants access to Airtel’s extensive ground infrastructure, positioning Starlink to deepen its reach and support Africa’s broader digital transformation agenda.
Chad Gibbs, SpaceX’s Vice President of Starlink Business Operations, emphasized the value of the alliance.
“The team at Airtel has played a pivotal role in Africa’s telecom story, so working with them to complement our direct offering across Africa makes great sense for our business,” Gibbs said.
Starlink is already available in over 20 African markets, but this agreement signals a new phase of collaboration between the two companies to accelerate economic empowerment, digital inclusion, and reliable connectivity across the continent.
The Airtel-SpaceX deal also reflects a broader shift in the telecom sector, where mobile network operators are increasingly seeking partnerships with satellite companies, once seen as potential rivals.
In Nigeria, for example, Starlink’s growing popularity has challenged traditional internet service providers and mobile network operators.
Last year, MTN Group revealed it was also engaging several satellite service providers, including Starlink, to expand its own reach to underserved regions.
MTN confirmed enterprise-grade trials were underway in Rwanda and Nigeria with Starlink, alongside upcoming direct-to-cell trials with Lynk Global in South Africa and Ghana.
The company also reported ongoing discussions with AST SpaceMobile for trials in Nigeria and South Sudan, and a planned pilot with Eutelsat OneWeb in South Africa.
This wave of satellite partnerships signals that African telecoms are determined to leave no region disconnected as they push forward into a new era of digital access and opportunity.
