Airtel Africa has signed a landmark agreement with SpaceX to expand Starlink internet services across Africa.
The collaboration will deliver high-speed satellite internet to rural and underserved regions in nine African countries.
Airtel Africa confirmed the deal in a press release issued on Monday, May 6, 2025.
The partnership aims to boost digital connectivity across areas with limited access to traditional internet infrastructure.
Starlink’s low-earth-orbit satellite technology will complement Airtel Africa’s existing ground infrastructure.
Airtel Africa plans to serve health centres, schools, businesses, and remote communities through this initiative.
The project will enhance Airtel’s service quality and network coverage in challenging terrains and remote locations.
SpaceX has already secured operating licences in nine of Airtel Africa’s 14 markets.
These markets include Nigeria, Kenya, Zambia, and other key African economies.
SpaceX is pursuing regulatory approval in the remaining five countries within Airtel’s operational footprint.
The collaboration supports Airtel’s long-term strategy to bridge the digital divide in Africa.
Airtel Africa’s CEO, Sunil Taldar, described the agreement as a major step in advancing Africa’s digital economy.
He reiterated the company’s commitment to offering reliable and affordable connectivity to every African.
Taldar highlighted the importance of digital access in transforming lives and creating inclusive growth.
SpaceX Vice President of Starlink Business Operations, Chad Gibbs, welcomed the partnership with Airtel Africa.
He emphasized Starlink’s mission to deliver broadband services to underserved and remote areas globally.
Gibbs noted that Starlink currently operates in over 20 African markets, with plans for further expansion.
He praised Airtel’s role in Africa’s telecom growth and recognized the company’s deep market presence.
The partnership will allow Starlink to leverage Airtel’s local infrastructure and customer base.
Airtel has over 163 million subscribers across Africa, including Nigeria, Ghana, and Zimbabwe.
The initiative will meet the growing demand for internet access in education, healthcare, and commerce.
The two companies will explore more opportunities for collaboration in expanding digital infrastructure.
Airtel Africa called the partnership a “game-changer” for digital inclusion across the continent.
This move marks a bold step toward bridging Africa’s connectivity gap using advanced satellite technology.
Airtel and Starlink aim to accelerate digital transformation and improve lives across Africa.
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