Vector illustration by WangXiNa on Freepik.

Airtel Africa signed an agreement with SpaceX to bring Starlink internet to its customers in Africa, the companies announced Tuesday. Airtel African plans to use Starlink satellite connectivity to augment its offerings for enterprises, businesses, schools, and health centers.

Airtel said that Starlink is licensed in nine out of 14 countries in the telco’s operating footprint, and operating licenses for the other five countries are under process. 

The telco plans to explore cellular backhaul to expand rural coverage. The agreement also includes plans to promote digital inclusion and how SpaceX can use Airtel’s ground network in Africa. 

“This partnership with SpaceX is a significant step to demonstrate our continued commitment to advancing Africa’s digital economy through strategic investments and partnerships,” Commented Airtel Africa Managing Director and CEO Sunil Taldar. “Next-generation satellite connectivity will ensure that every individual, business, and community have reliable and affordable voice and data connectivity even in the most remote and currently under-served parts of Africa.”

Airtel Africa is owned by Indian telecommunications company Bharti Airtel, which also signed an agreement to bring Starlink to India in May. Bharti Airtel is also a backer of OneWeb and was one of the financiers to rescue the constellation from bankruptcy. Airtel Africa also has a distribution agreement with OneWeb, signed in 2022. 

Airtel Africa operates in Chad, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Niger, Nigeria, the Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, Seychelles, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. 

SpaceX Vice President of Starlink Business Operations Chad Gibbs said that working with Airtel in Africa complements Starlink’s direct-to-consumer offering in Africa. “This agreement with Airtel highlights how, once licensed, Starlink welcomes the opportunity to join forces with important industry leaders to ensure as many people as possible can benefit from Starlink’s presence,” Gibbs said in a release.