SpaceX and Airtel Africa announced a partnership on Monday to provide Starlink’s high-speed satellite internet services to customers throughout Africa. Starlink’s low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite technology will be integrated with Airtel’s network architecture to increase internet connectivity in remote and underserved areas.
SpaceX licenses Airtel Africa for satellite across nine markets
SpaceX has already secured operating licenses in nine of the 14 countries where Airtel Africa operates, including Nigeria, Kenya, and Zambia, with licences for the remaining five countries still in process. This will allow Airtel Africa to offer next-generation satellite connectivity to a broad range of users, such as enterprises, small businesses, schools, and health centres, especially in rural communities with limited terrestrial infrastructure.
Sunil Taldar, Managing Director and CEO of Airtel Africa said, “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 underserved parts of Africa.” He emphasised the company’s commitment to advancing Africa’s digital economy through strategic partnerships like this one.
The partnership also plans to explore rural coverage expansion through cellular backhaul supported by satellite links. This means satellite technology will help extend mobile network coverage into hard-to-reach areas, improving digital inclusion across the continent.
Leveraging synergies between Airtel and SpaceX
Beyond expanding coverage, Airtel Africa and SpaceX intend to explore further cooperation to enhance digital access. SpaceX will benefit from using Airtel’s extensive ground infrastructure, including terrestrial networks and technical capabilities, to support Starlink’s African growth.
Chad Gibbs, Vice President of Starlink Business Operations at SpaceX, expressed excitement about the partnership, saying, “Starlink is available in more than 20 African markets, and this agreement with Airtel highlights how, once licensed, Starlink welcomes the opportunity to join forces with important industry leaders to ensure as many people as possible can benefit from Starlink’s presence.” He also noted Airtel’s pivotal role in Africa’s telecom sector, making the collaboration a natural fit.
This alliance reflects a growing trend where satellite and mobile network operators collaborate to bridge connectivity gaps rather than compete, aiming to bring affordable and reliable internet to underserved populations. It also positions Airtel Africa as a key player in integrating space-enabled technologies into national development priorities.
While affordability remains a concern given Starlink’s historically high service costs, the partnership could facilitate innovative pricing or bundled offerings that make satellite internet more accessible to low-income users in Africa.
This deal follows Airtel’s earlier agreement to distribute Starlink services in India, marking a strategic global expansion of the telecom giant’s partnership with SpaceX.