By Racheal Nagawa
Airtel Africa is in advanced discussions with SpaceX to integrate Starlink’s direct-to-cell satellite technology into its mobile networks, a move that could revolutionize internet access across 14 African nations, including Kenya.
The partnership aims to extend mobile internet coverage into remote and underserved regions where traditional infrastructure is costly or impractical. By connecting standard mobile devices directly to Starlink’s low Earth orbit satellites, Airtel could bypass the need for conventional cell towers and fibre backhaul in difficult-to-reach areas.
Chief Executive Sunil Taldar said the initiative is designed to complement Airtel’s existing towers rather than replace them. “By bypassing conventional towers in remote areas, where rugged terrain and infrastructure costs limit connectivity, the technology is expected to dramatically widen access to digital services across our markets,” he explained.
Bridging Africa’s connectivity gap
Africa’s digital economy is projected to surpass $712 billion by 2050, yet large portions of the continent remain unconnected. For Airtel, integrating Starlink could be a practical solution for low-density markets where traditional network expansion remains economically challenging.
Taldar confirmed that negotiations with SpaceX are in their final stages, with the company aiming to conclude agreements within the first half of its financial year. He stressed that the hybrid approach—combining satellite connectivity with existing infrastructure—would strengthen Airtel’s presence in underserved areas while enhancing service reliability.
Competition and market dynamics
Airtel Africa operates in 14 countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia, Malawi, Madagascar, Niger, Chad, Gabon, Seychelles, and both the Democratic Republic and Republic of the Congo.
In Kenya, Safaricom dominates the mobile broadband market with a 63 percent subscription share, while Airtel Kenya holds around 32 percent. Smaller players, including Telkom Kenya, Equitel, and Jamii Telecommunications, share the remaining market.
The Starlink integration could allow Airtel to extend its reach without matching Safaricom’s extensive tower network, improving its competitive position, particularly in rural areas where fibre rollout is limited.
Satellite internet uptake
Kenya’s internet penetration currently stands at 49 percent, with roughly 27.4 million users. Expanding access beyond major cities remains a challenge, and satellite technology is increasingly viewed as a viable solution.
Since Starlink launched in Kenya, government data shows active subscriptions rose from just 2,933 in 2023 to 19,403 in 2024, reflecting growing interest, though satellite users still represent a small fraction of total connections. Regulators are now considering stricter verification measures for satellite internet users to align with telecom KYC frameworks, aiming to enhance security and mitigate cross-border cyber risks.
A strategic move for Africa and Starlink
If finalized, the partnership would position Airtel Africa as one of the first major operators in Africa to deploy direct-to-cell satellite technology at scale. The move could accelerate digital inclusion in regions where cost, geography, and population density have historically limited network development.
For SpaceX, the deal represents a strategic foothold in Africa’s fast-growing telecom sector and a chance to transform how millions of people connect to the internet across the continent.
About the Author
Racheal Nagawa is a senior reporter at Business Express Magazine with over a decade of experience covering business, finance, economy, entrepreneurship, and African lifestyle across both print and electronic media.
