08 May 2025
Airtel Africa has entered into a strategic partnership with American aerospace company SpaceX to integrate Starlink satellite internet services into its network. This collaboration aims to enhance broadband connectivity in both urban and rural areas across Africa by utilizing cellular backhaul, enabling Airtel to deliver improved voice and data services to previously underserved regions.
“This partnership with SpaceX is a milestone that demonstrates our ongoing commitment to advancing Africa’s digital economy through strategic investments and collaborations. Next-generation satellite connectivity will ensure every individual, business, and community has reliable and affordable internet access, even in the most remote and underserved regions,” said Sunil Taldar, Managing Director of Airtel Africa.
With Starlink’s infrastructure in nine of Airtel Africa’s 14 markets — including Nigeria, Kenya, Zambia, and Madagascar — the partnership offers the potential to reach a total of 240 million internet users. This expansion will target populations that have historically had limited or no access to traditional telecom networks, addressing a critical gap in connectivity.
The African Telecommunications Union (ATU) highlights satellite connectivity as a cost-effective alternative to terrestrial infrastructure in rural and remote areas, where deploying traditional networks is often prohibitively expensive. For Airtel Africa, this means an opportunity to reduce investments in physical infrastructure while simultaneously expanding its customer base and boosting revenue.
“We are excited to collaborate with Airtel to bring the transformative benefits of Starlink to the people of Africa in innovative ways,” said Chad Gibbs, Vice President of Starlink’s commercial operations.
