Airtel Africa and Starlink have launched a satellite-to-phone service in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), marking the first commercial deployment of such a service on the African continent. The service allows Airtel customers with compatible smartphones to access connectivity in areas without ground-based coverage, provided they have a clear line of sight to the sky.
Starlink operates one of the world’s largest satellite constellations designed for direct-to-device connectivity, with 650 satellites launched to date. The service enables low-bandwidth data applications, including messaging via WhatsApp and standard SMS. Customers require no specialist equipment or additional devices to access the service.
The launch follows the strategic partnership announced by Airtel Africa and Starlink in December 2025 and the successful trial of Starlink Mobile data and messaging services in Kenya in March 2026. The DRC is the first Airtel Africa market and the first African country in which the service has progressed to full commercial deployment.
To access the service, customers must hold a compatible Android LTE smartphone and an active Airtel DRC data bundle or have data roaming enabled. Support for Apple devices is expected to be introduced at a later stage.
“The first commercial launch of Starlink Mobile in Africa is a significant milestone for Airtel Africa through our partnership with SpaceX. By combining Airtel’s ground-based network with Starlink’s satellite technology, we are extending essential connectivity beyond the limits of conventional mobile infrastructure. The DRC is leading this important development, and the experience gained here will support the progressive expansion of the service across our markets, subject to country-specific regulatory approvals,” said Sunil Taldar, Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Africa.
Thierry Diasonama, Managing Director of Airtel DRC, described the commercial launch of Starlink Mobile as an important step toward expanding connectivity across the country. “The size and geography of our country mean that many people live, work, and travel beyond the reach of conventional mobile infrastructure. This service provides an additional layer of connectivity, helping customers remain reachable, informed, and connected, even in areas where ground-based coverage is not available,” he said.
The service is expected to be of particular value to individuals and organisations operating in remote areas, including transport and logistics companies, humanitarian organisations, healthcare professionals, farmers, mining enterprises, and communities beyond the reach of terrestrial networks. It will also help ensure essential communications during emergencies, natural disasters, and temporary disruptions to ground-based networks.
Eligible customers can register through the MyAirtel application to benefit from a free 30-day trial period. Customers travelling to the DRC who join Airtel DRC will also be able to access the trial after activating an eligible service and downloading the MyAirtel application.
Following the trial period, customers will continue to access Starlink Mobile through eligible Airtel data bundles.
Airtel Africa and Starlink are continuing to develop the service, with new features expected to be introduced as the technology evolves and the necessary regulatory approvals are obtained in each market.
The launch reinforces Airtel Africa’s position as a telecoms operator at the forefront of introducing new technologies across the continent and underscores its commitment to leveraging innovation to address Africa’s connectivity and digital security needs.
Source: Diário Económico
Original article: https://www.diarioeconomico.co.mz/?p=531398
