Airtel Africa has announced its latest partnership with SpaceX to deliver Starlink’s satellite internet to its customers across the continent.
This will help improve Airtel Africa’s satellite connectivity offerings. Its aim is to extend reliable internet access to underserved and remote communities. These include schools, health centres, businesses and rural enterprises.
SpaceX has secured operating licenses in 9 of the 14 African countries where Airtel operates, with license approvals pending in the remaining five. Once regulatory clearances are finalized, Starlink will become a powerful addition to Airtel Africa’s connectivity infrastructure.
“We remain deeply committed to our vision to enrich the lives of people of Africa,” said Sunil Taldar, MD and CEO of Airtel Africa. “This partnership with SpaceX is a significant step that underlines our dedication to advancing Africa’s digital economy through strategic investments and partnerships. Next-generation satellite connectivity will ensure that every individual, business, and community has reliable and affordable voice and data connectivity—even in the most remote and currently under-served parts of Africa.”
Beyond delivering internet services directly to users, the partnership also opens the door to rural cellular backhaul opportunities, where Starlink’s satellite connectivity could be used to expand Airtel’s mobile network reach to off-grid areas.
Chad Gibbs, SpaceX’s VP of Starlink Business Operations, welcomed the partnership. “We are very excited to work with Airtel to bring the transformative benefits of Starlink to the African people in new and innovative ways,” he said. “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 added that Starlink is already available in over 20 African markets, and collaborations like this with leading regional players will help accelerate access and adoption across the continent.
In addition to offering connectivity, Airtel and SpaceX are also exploring other areas of cooperation, including using Airtel’s ground infrastructure and network capabilities to support Starlink operations across Africa.
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