Starlink to launch first satellite-to-mobile service in Africa Airtel Nigeria has explained that recent advances in satellite technology, driven by SpaceX’s Starlink, have made satellite-based telecom services both effective and cost-efficient.
The explanation was given by the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Dinesh Balsingh, while responding to questions from journalists during the announcement of Airtel Africa’s partnership with Starlink to provide satellite-to-mobile services across the continent.
Balsingh noted that telecom operators had previously relied largely on broadband cable connections for mobile services, citing satellite communication as expensive and less effective. He said those concerns have now been dispelled by Starlink’s simplified and advanced satellite technology.
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According to him, the partnership will enable Airtel to deliver satellite-to-mobile services across the 14 African markets where it operates, particularly in areas with limited or no terrestrial network coverage, using SpaceX’s Starlink platform.
The satellite service, he said, is designed to deliver data speeds of up to 20 times faster directly to smartphones. With more than 650 low-Earth orbit satellites, Airtel said it has become the first mobile network operator in Africa to offer Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell services, ensuring seamless connectivity for rural, remote and underserved communities.
Airtel stressed that the partnership reflects its long-standing commitment to bridging Africa’s digital divide and ensuring that geography no longer limits access to communication, opportunities or essential services.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Africa, Sunil Taldar, said the collaboration aligns with the company’s mission to improve customer experience and expand reliable connectivity.
