Nairobi — Airtel Africa has signed a partnership with SpaceX to roll out Starlink Direct-to-Cell satellite connectivity across its 14 African markets, marking the continent's first satellite-to-mobile service at scale.

Under the agreement, Airtel Africa's 174 million customers will be able to access mobile connectivity in areas without terrestrial network coverage using compatible smartphones.

The service is expected to launch in 2026, beginning with data for selected applications and text messaging, subject to regulatory approvals in individual countries.

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The partnership will also support Starlink's next-generation Direct-to-Cell broadband system, which uses advanced satellites capable of delivering significantly higher data speeds directly to smartphones without the need for specialised equipment.

Airtel Africa said it will be the first mobile network operator on the continent to offer Starlink Direct-to-Cell services, leveraging a satellite network of about 650 satellites to extend coverage to remote and underserved areas.

Airtel Africa Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Sunil Taldar said the collaboration would complement the company's existing terrestrial infrastructure, particularly in regions where network deployment remains difficult.

Starlink Vice President for Sales Stephanie Bednarek said the partnership would enable continuous connectivity in remote locations while laying the groundwork for high-speed broadband services that improve access to essential digital services.

The companies said they will continue exploring additional areas of collaboration to accelerate digital inclusion across Africa.