Business
AIRTEL Africa and SpaceX have successfully tested Starlink Mobile data and messaging services in Kenya, extending connectivity to areas without network coverage.
The Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Africa, Sunil Taldar, confirmed this in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Lagos.
Taldar noted that the trial marked a significant step towards satellite-to-mobile connectivity across Airtel Africa’s 14 markets.
He said the testing was conducted in locations without terrestrial mobile network signals, where Starlink Mobile was activated to provide connectivity.
Taldar said that 4G-compatible smartphones were able to connect directly to Starlink’s satellite constellation, ensuring continued access to communication services.
He noted that the connectivity supported light-data applications such as WhatsApp calls and messaging, maps, Facebook Messenger, and financial transactions via the Airtel app.
He added that users maintained access to essential digital services even in remote locations during the testing phase.
“We are thrilled to move from announcement to actionable steps with our partners at SpaceX,” he said.
Taldar noted that the testing in Kenya demonstrated Airtel Africa’s commitment to expanding connectivity.
“By integrating Starlink Mobile’s technology, we are ensuring that our customers remain connected even when they travel beyond our terrestrial network,” he said.
He noted that insights from the Kenya trial would guide expansion across Airtel Africa’s markets, subject to regulatory approvals.
He added that the partners planned to introduce voice calls and enhanced data services using Starlink Mobile V2 technology to deliver broadband directly to mobile phones. (NAN)
A.I
March 25, 2026
Tags: AIRTEL Africa SpaceX Starlink Sunil Taldar
