Airtel Africa has reached an agreement with SpaceX to deliver Starlink’s satellite internet services across the 14 African countries where it operates, aiming to expand connectivity in hard-to-reach regions with high-speed, low-latency coverage.

The company confirmed that Starlink already holds regulatory licences in nine of these countries, while applications in the remaining five are still under review.

Highlighting the importance of ensuring connectivity for all, Airtel Africa expressed that satellite networks will help deliver affordable communication services even to the most isolated areas.

“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 parts of Africa,” said Sunil Taldar, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Africa.

In Kenya, Starlink launched its services in July 2023 and has since gathered nearly 20,000 subscribers, securing roughly 1.1 per cent of the fixed data market, thanks to lowered equipment prices and rental options.

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Last year, Safaricom raised concerns with the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), calling for limits on Starlink’s direct operations over what it described as sectoral security risks.

The government, however, dismissed the complaints and welcomed Starlink as a competitive entrant.

While Starlink had initially explored partnership discussions with Safaricom, those talks appear to have fallen through, and the satellite internet provider is now teaming up with Safaricom’s competitor, Airtel Kenya.

SpaceX conveyed enthusiasm about working alongside Airtel to widen Starlink’s reach across the continent.

“We are very excited to work with Airtel to bring the transformative benefits of Starlink to the African people in new and innovative ways. Working with a telecom leader like Airtel allows us to complement our direct offering and expand our impact on the continent,” said Chad Gibbs, Vice President of Starlink Business Operations at SpaceX.

Airtel Africa, which serves over 156 million subscribers across sub-Saharan Africa, has placed digital inclusion at the centre of its long-term plans.

In Kenya, it remains behind Safaricom in market share but has been doubling down on strategic partnerships to strengthen its position.

As the demand for reliable internet rises to support online learning, digital finance, and healthcare, Airtel is betting on satellite technology to help close the digital access gap.

For Starlink, the partnership offers a way to navigate regulatory challenges in several African markets while broadening its footprint in regions where traditional broadband infrastructure remains limited.