Airtel Africa Brings Starlink Satellite-to-Mobile Service to DRC

Airtel Africa has launched a commercial satellite-to-mobile service in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), allowing customers with compatible smartphones to stay connected in areas beyond terrestrial mobile network coverage. The service was launched on 14 August 2026 and is the first commercial deployment of Starlink’s direct-to-cell technology in Africa.

The service follows a partnership between Airtel Africa and SpaceX, the owner of Starlink. Compatible LTE Android smartphones can connect directly to Starlink satellites without a satellite dish or other specialised equipment.

Satellite Connectivity Extends Mobile Coverage

For now, the service supports SMS and light-data applications, including WhatsApp messaging. Customers need a compatible LTE Android smartphone and an active Airtel DRC data bundle or enabled data roaming. Apple devices are not supported at launch, although Airtel has said support for Apple devices is planned for future updates.

Airtel Africa CEO Sunil Taldar said the service combines the company’s existing terrestrial network with Starlink’s satellite technology.

“By combining Airtel’s terrestrial network with Starlink’s satellite technology, we are extending essential connectivity beyond the limits of conventional mobile infrastructure,” Taldar said.

The DRC deployment also provides Airtel with an initial commercial market for the technology. Taldar said the experience gained in the country will support a wider rollout across Airtel Africa’s markets, subject to regulatory approvals.

DRC Becomes First Commercial Market

The DRC was selected for the first commercial deployment as large parts of the country remain difficult to serve through conventional telecommunications infrastructure. Thierry Diasonama, Managing Director of Airtel DRC, said the country’s geography leaves many people living and working beyond the reach of terrestrial networks.

“This service provides an additional layer of connectivity, helping customers remain reachable, informed and connected even in areas where terrestrial coverage is unavailable,” Diasonama said.

The technology is also being positioned for organisations working in remote areas. Potential users include logistics operators, humanitarian agencies, healthcare workers, farmers and mining operations. Airtel has also pointed to its potential use during emergencies and temporary network disruptions.

Airtel Plans Wider Rollout

Airtel Africa and SpaceX announced their satellite-to-mobile partnership in December 2025. The agreement covers Airtel’s 14 African markets, representing more than 170 million subscribers. The companies previously tested Starlink Mobile’s messaging and data services in Kenya in March 2026. The DRC has now become the first Airtel market where the service has moved from testing to commercial customer access. However, expansion will depend on regulatory approvals in each market. Airtel has said the DRC experience will help inform the rollout as those approvals are secured.

Eligible subscribers in the DRC can register through the MyAirtel app for a 30-day introductory trial. The launch gives Airtel another option for extending basic mobile connectivity into areas where traditional network infrastructure does not reach.