Airtel Africa has launched a satellite-to-mobile service in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) through its partnership with Starlink, marking the first commercial deployment of the technology in Africa.
The service is designed to keep Airtel customers connected in areas without traditional terrestrial network coverage. Compatible smartphones can connect directly to Starlink satellites without requiring a satellite dish, specialised equipment or a separate satellite phone.
For now, users can access SMS and selected light-data applications, including WhatsApp. The service is currently available to eligible compatible Android devices in the DRC, with customers able to register through the MyAirtel app. An introductory 30-day trial is also being offered.
The launch highlights how satellite connectivity is increasingly becoming part of Africa’s telecommunications infrastructure. Rather than relying entirely on expensive terrestrial networks to reach remote communities, operators can use satellite-to-mobile technology to extend basic connectivity into underserved areas.
For Airtel Africa, the DRC launch could also serve as an important test case as the company works toward expanding Starlink’s direct-to-mobile service across its African markets. The partnership was announced in December 2025, with Airtel planning satellite connectivity across its 14 African markets.
Africa’s connectivity gap may increasingly be addressed not just by building more towers, but by combining traditional mobile networks with satellite infrastructure.
