Airtel, Starlink launch satellite-to-phone service in DRC, first in Africa
By Aboki Forex —
Airtel Africa and Starlink have switched on satellite-to-mobile connectivity in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the first commercial deployment of the service in Africa. Airtel customers with compatible smartphones can now access mobile connectivity in areas without terrestrial network coverage, as long as they have a clear view of the sky.
The service uses Starlink's satellite-to-mobile constellation, which currently has 650 launched satellites. It supports light data applications, including WhatsApp messaging and SMS. No specialised equipment or separate device is needed.
Partnership and testing timeline
The commercial launch follows the strategic partnership between Airtel Africa and Starlink announced in December 2025. Successful testing of Starlink Mobile data and messaging services was done in Kenya in March 2026.
Airtel Africa CEO Sunil Taldar said the deployment is a major step for the company and its partnership with SpaceX. “The first-ever commercial launch of Starlink Mobile in Africa is a significant milestone for Airtel Africa through our partnership with SpaceX,” Taldar said.
He explained that combining Airtel's terrestrial network with Starlink's satellite technology extends connectivity beyond the limits of conventional mobile infrastructure. The DRC deployment will provide experience to guide expansion into other Airtel markets, subject to country-specific regulatory approvals.
How the service works
Managing Director of Airtel DRC, Thierry Diasnoma, said the service addresses connectivity challenges tied to the country's size and geography. Many people in DRC live, work and travel outside the reach of conventional mobile infrastructure, so satellite connectivity becomes an extra layer to keep them connected.
Customers in DRC need a compatible LTE Android smartphone and either an active Airtel DRC data bundle or data roaming switched on. Apple devices will be supported in the future as the service expands.
The service targets people and organisations in remote areas: transport and logistics companies, humanitarian groups, health workers, farmers, mining operations and communities beyond terrestrial networks. It also provides an extra communication channel during emergencies, natural disasters and network disruptions.
Regional context and Nigeria
Airtel Africa and SpaceX signed the deal to roll out Starlink's high-speed satellite internet across the continent in December last year. At the time, Airtel said SpaceX had operating licences in 9 of the 14 African countries where Airtel operates, including Nigeria. Licensing for the remaining 5 countries was in progress.
MTN Group had earlier said it was in talks with several satellite providers, including Starlink, to expand services to unserved areas in its operating markets.
The Airtel/Starlink deal comes as the Nigerian Communications Commission pushes for satellite Direct-to-Device (D2D) connectivity to close coverage gaps affecting an estimated 23.3 million Nigerians. In a recently published consultation paper, the NCC said national connectivity assessments, technology trends and the limits of terrestrial infrastructure make D2D necessary for universal access.