Airtel Africa and SpaceX’s Starlink have taken a major step in expanding mobile connectivity across Africa with the commercial launch of satellite-to-mobile services in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
The deployment makes the DRC the first Airtel Africa market, and the first country on the continent, to commercially offer Starlink Mobile connectivity. The service is designed to keep Airtel customers connected in areas where conventional terrestrial mobile networks are unavailable, provided their phones have a clear view of the sky.
Unlike traditional satellite connectivity, the service does not require customers to purchase specialised equipment or carry a separate satellite device.
Compatible LTE Android smartphones can connect directly to Starlink satellites for services such as SMS and selected low-data applications, including WhatsApp messaging.
The launch builds on a strategic partnership between Airtel Africa and Starlink announced in December 2025. It also follows successful testing of Starlink Mobile data and messaging services in Kenya in March 2026, signalling a potential pathway for wider deployment across Airtel’s African markets.
To access the service in the DRC, customers need a compatible LTE Android smartphone, an active Airtel DRC data bundle or data roaming enabled. Apple devices are expected to be supported as the technology develops.
Airtel Africa Chief Executive Officer Sunil Taldar described the deployment as a significant milestone, saying the partnership combines Airtel’s terrestrial infrastructure with Starlink’s satellite technology to push connectivity beyond the traditional limits of mobile networks.
The technology could prove particularly important in the DRC, whose vast geography makes conventional network expansion challenging. Remote communities, farmers, health workers, humanitarian organisations, transport operators and mining companies are among those expected to benefit.
The satellite connection could also provide a communications lifeline during emergencies, natural disasters or temporary interruptions to terrestrial networks.
Eligible Airtel customers can register through the MyAirtel App for a 30-day free trial. After the introductory period, continued access will be provided through eligible Airtel data bundles.
For Airtel Africa, the DRC launch represents more than a new connectivity product. It is an early demonstration of how satellite technology could complement conventional mobile infrastructure and help bridge some of Africa’s most persistent connectivity gaps.
The company said further capabilities are expected as Starlink Mobile technology evolves, with expansion into additional Airtel markets dependent on country-specific regulatory approvals.