Airtel Africa plc has formed a strategic partnership with SpaceX to bring Starlink's high-speed satellite internet services to customers across Africa , the companies announced today.
The agreement aims to expand digital connectivity to underserved regions, with SpaceX already securing operating licenses in nine of Airtel Africa's 14 market countries. Licensing applications for the remaining five countries are currently being processed.
"This partnership with SpaceX is a significant step to demonstrate our continued commitment to advancing Africa's digital economy through strategic investments and partnerships," said Airtel Africa CEO Sunil Taldar .
The collaboration will enhance Airtel's satellite connectivity offerings for enterprises, businesses, and social infrastructure like schools and health centers in remote areas. Additionally, the telecom giant plans to explore rural coverage expansion through cellular backhauling.
Chad Gibbs, SpaceX Vice President of Starlink Business Operations, highlighted the partnership's strategic importance: "We are very excited to work with Airtel to bring the transformative benefits of Starlink to the African people in new and innovative ways."
Starlink currently operates in more than 20 African markets, and this agreement represents a significant expansion of its reach across the continent. The partnership will allow both companies to leverage their respective strengths, with Airtel potentially providing ground network infrastructure for SpaceX's operations.
The companies indicated they would continue exploring additional opportunities to promote digital inclusion throughout Africa, potentially combining Airtel's established telecom presence with SpaceX's satellite technology to create comprehensive connectivity solutions.
The agreement aims to expand digital connectivity to underserved regions, with SpaceX already securing operating licenses in nine of Airtel Africa's 14 market countries. Licensing applications for the remaining five countries are currently being processed.
"This partnership with SpaceX is a significant step to demonstrate our continued commitment to advancing Africa's digital economy through strategic investments and partnerships," said Airtel Africa CEO Sunil Taldar .
The collaboration will enhance Airtel's satellite connectivity offerings for enterprises, businesses, and social infrastructure like schools and health centers in remote areas. Additionally, the telecom giant plans to explore rural coverage expansion through cellular backhauling.
Chad Gibbs, SpaceX Vice President of Starlink Business Operations, highlighted the partnership's strategic importance: "We are very excited to work with Airtel to bring the transformative benefits of Starlink to the African people in new and innovative ways."
Starlink currently operates in more than 20 African markets, and this agreement represents a significant expansion of its reach across the continent. The partnership will allow both companies to leverage their respective strengths, with Airtel potentially providing ground network infrastructure for SpaceX's operations.
The companies indicated they would continue exploring additional opportunities to promote digital inclusion throughout Africa, potentially combining Airtel's established telecom presence with SpaceX's satellite technology to create comprehensive connectivity solutions.
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