Airtel, SpaceX partner to bring Starlink services in Africa
What you need to know:
- The partnership will enhance Airtel’s satellite connectivity solutions, expanding internet access to enterprises, businesses, and underserved socio-economic areas such as schools and health centers.
Dubai. Airtel Africa has announced a strategic agreement with SpaceX to provide Starlink’s high-speed satellite internet services to its customers across the continent, a move poised to significantly boost digital connectivity in even the most remote regions of Africa.
According to the announcement, SpaceX has already secured operating licenses in 9 out of the 14 countries where Airtel Africa operates, with applications underway for the remaining five.
The partnership will enhance Airtel’s satellite connectivity solutions, expanding internet access to enterprises, businesses, and underserved socio-economic areas such as schools and health centers.
The two companies will also explore rural network expansion through cellular backhauling, using Starlink’s advanced satellite technology. Additionally, SpaceX will leverage Airtel’s ground infrastructure and capabilities to support broader deployment across the continent.
“We remain deeply committed to our vision to enrich the lives of people of Africa,” said, Managing Director and CEO of Airtel Africa, Sunil Taldar.
He added: This partnership with SpaceX is a significant step to demonstrate our continued commitment 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.
For his part, Vice President of Starlink Business Operations at SpaceX, Chad Gibbs expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration; “We are very excited to work with Airtel to bring the transformative benefits of Starlink to the African people in new and innovative ways.
“This agreement 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 said.
Already active in over 20 African markets, Starlink’s partnership with Airtel marks a new chapter in the continent’s connectivity journey, reinforcing the commitment to bridge the digital divide and promote inclusive access to the global internet economy.
