Airtel and SpaceX Test Satellite Calls in Kenya

Airtel Africa and SpaceX have completed a live test of Starlink’s satellite-to-mobile technology in Kenya, marking a significant step in efforts to bring mobile connectivity to remote parts of the continent.

The trial allowed 4G-compatible smartphones to link directly to Starlink satellites without any ground-based network infrastructure. Users in areas with no mobile signal were able to send messages, make calls via apps like WhatsApp, access navigation tools, and use mobile financial services — all through a direct satellite link.

Airtel Africa’s Chief Executive, Sunil Taldar, confirmed the test in an official statement, calling it a meaningful shift from planning to execution. “We are thrilled to move from announcement to actionable steps with our partners at SpaceX,” he said. He added that the integration would keep customers connected beyond the reach of traditional towers: “By integrating Starlink Mobile’s technology, we are ensuring that our customers remain connected even when they travel beyond our terrestrial network.”

Rollout Planned Across 14 Markets

The Kenya test is part of a broader agreement between the two companies covering all 14 of Airtel Africa’s operating markets, including Nigeria. The partnership, signed last year, targets an initial rollout in 2026, beginning with text messaging and limited data services before expanding to voice calls and higher-speed connectivity.

SpaceX’s next-generation Direct-to-Cell system, which underpins the technology, is designed to deliver data speeds up to 20 times faster than earlier satellite solutions — a performance jump that could meaningfully improve access in areas long underserved by fixed and mobile infrastructure.

Taldar said findings from the Kenya trial will inform how the service is deployed across other markets, with each country subject to its own regulatory approvals before launch.

SpaceX first announced its direct-to-mobile ambitions in 2024, with text messaging as the entry point and voice, data, and IoT services targeted for phased rollout through 2025 and 2026. The successful Kenya test suggests that commercial deployment remains on course.

For now, the service supports light-data use — messaging apps, navigation, and mobile money. Voice calls and expanded data capabilities are in development, with Airtel Africa indicating these will be introduced as the technology matures and regulatory clearances are secured market by market.