{
  "id": 1480147,
  "title": "Airtel, Starlink launch satellite service in DRC",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/17/airtel-starlink-launch-satellite-service-in-drc",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-08-17T11:47:46.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Capital Business",
    "slug": "capital-business",
    "url": "https://capitalfm.africa/airtel-starlink-launch-satellite-service-in-drc/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "NAIROBI, Kenya – Airtel Africa and Starlink have teamed up to launch a satellite-to-mobile service in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), marking the first implementation of this technology in Africa for commercial use. The service, introduced on August 14, allows Airtel customers with compatible smartphones to maintain connectivity in areas where traditional mobile networks do not reach, provided they have an unobstructed view of the sky. Currently, the service supports SMS, WhatsApp messaging, and other low-data applications, without necessitating specialized satellite equipment. Airtel Africa's CEO, Sunil Taldar, highlighted that this step will extend connectivity beyond areas serviced by conventional mobile infrastructure, thanks to the partnership with SpaceX. The collaboration between Airtel Africa and Starlink commenced in December 2025, with testing of Starlink Mobile data and messaging services in Kenya beginning in March 2026. The deployment in the DRC aims to benefit people and organizations operating in remote regions, including transport and logistics companies, humanitarian agencies, healthcare workers, farmers, and mining operations. Additionally, the service could serve as a vital communication link during emergencies, natural disasters, or temporary disruptions to terrestrial networks. Therry Diasnoma, Airtel DRC's Managing Director, emphasized that the service will help bridge connectivity gaps resulting from the country's vast size and geography. The commercial launch of Starlink Mobile in the DRC is described as a significant step towards extending essential connectivity throughout the country. Currently, users require a compatible LTE Android smartphone and an active Airtel DRC data bundle or data roaming to utilize the service. Apple devices are expected to be supported in the future. Eligible customers can register for a free 30-day trial via the MyAirtel App, after which the service will be accessible through eligible Airtel data bundles. Starlink's satellite-to-mobile constellation currently comprises 650 launched satellites, with further capabilities anticipated as the technology advances. While the DRC launch has been successfully executed, the service is not yet available in Kenya through Airtel. The company stated that expansion to other markets will depend on obtaining country-specific regulatory approvals. Consequently, the DRC deployment serves as the inaugural commercial launch of Airtel’s Starlink Mobile service in Africa, with future expansion contingent upon regulatory approvals, compatible devices, and the ongoing evolution of the technology.",
  "summary": "The service, launched on August 14, allows Airtel customers with compatible smartphones to stay connected in areas without conventional mobile network coverage, provided they have a clear view of the sky.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}