FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MARCH 25, 2026
Airtel Africa Announces Successful Data and Messaging Testing of Starlink Mobile in Kenya
DUBAI – Airtel Africa and SpaceX are pleased to announce the successful testing of data and messaging services with Starlink Mobile in Kenya, in a significant step towards bringing satellite-to-mobile connectivity to millions of people across Airtel Africa’s 14 markets.
The testing was done in “no connectivity” areas – locations where terrestrial mobile networks did not have a signal. In these areas, Starlink Mobile was seamlessly activated, allowing 4G compatible smartphones access to Starlink’s constellation of 650 launched satellites to keep them connected.
During this testing phase, the connectivity was able to support light-data applications such as WhatsApp calling and messaging, maps, Facebook Messenger, and successful financial transactions via the Airtel app. Users remained connected to these apps and had access to key services even in the most remote locations.
Sunil Taldar, Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Africa, commented: “We are thrilled to move from announcement to actionable steps with our partners at SpaceX. This testing phase in Kenya is a testament to our commitment to expanding global access. By integrating Starlink Mobile’s technology, we are ensuring that our customers remain connected even when they travel beyond our terrestrial network.”
Following this testing in Kenya, Airtel Africa and Starlink Mobile plan to leverage the insights gained to expand the service across Airtel Africa’s 14 markets, in line with country-specific regulatory approvals. Additionally, the partners plan to launch voice calling and expanded data capabilities using Starlink Mobile V2 technology that will enable broadband directly to mobile phones.
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About Airtel Africa
Airtel Africa is a leading provider of telecommunications and mobile money services, with operations in 14 countries across sub-Saharan Africa. Airtel Africa’s integrated offer provides national and international mobile voice and data services as well as mobile money services to 174 million customers. The company’s strategy is focused on delivering a great customer experience across the entire footprint and increasing digital and financial inclusion to transform lives across Africa, in line with our corporate purpose.
For more information, please visit https://airtel.africa/ or connect with us on LinkedIn.
About Starlink Mobile
Starlink Mobile is the world’s only and largest constellation with 650 launched satellites in low-Earth orbit that delivers data, voice, video and messaging to devices in mobile dead zones. Connecting millions of customers across six continents, Starlink’s satellites work with existing LTE phones wherever you can see the sky. Acting like a cell phone tower in space with the most advanced phased array antennas in the world that connect seamlessly across the Starlink network over lasers to any point in the globe, it enables network integration similar to a standard roaming partner. Starlink is the world’s largest 4G coverage provider and partners with Mobile Network Operators all over the world. Learn more here and follow @Starlink on X.
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