KAMPALA — Airtel Africa and Starlink have launched satellite-to-mobile services in Uganda, making the country the second African market where the service is commercially available after the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The service allows Airtel customers with compatible smartphones to stay connected in areas outside the reach of terrestrial mobile networks, provided they have a clear view of the sky.
Starlink Mobile uses a satellite constellation of 650 launched satellites to support light-data applications, including WhatsApp messaging and SMS. Customers do not need a satellite dish, specialised equipment or a separate device.
The service is expected to benefit people and organisations operating in remote areas, including transport and logistics companies, humanitarian agencies, health workers, farmers and mining operations, as well as communities with limited access to conventional mobile networks.
It is also intended to provide an alternative communication channel during emergencies, natural disasters and temporary disruptions to terrestrial networks.
Eligible Airtel customers can register through the MyAirtel App to access a free 30-day introductory trial. After the trial period, the service will be available through eligible Airtel Uganda data bundles.
Airtel Africa said the launch follows a strategic partnership with Starlink announced in December 2025 and subsequent testing of satellite-to-mobile data and messaging services earlier this year.
Airtel Africa CEO Sunil Taldar said the Ugandan launch demonstrates progress in extending satellite connectivity across the company’s African markets.
“Our ambition is to complement the reach of our terrestrial networks with satellite technology so that our customers can remain connected wherever they live, work or travel,” Taldar said.
He also thanked the Ugandan government for supporting the deployment.
Airtel Uganda Managing Director and CEO Soumendra Sahu said the technology would complement the company’s investment in terrestrial infrastructure.
“Starlink’s advanced satellite technology complements our ongoing investments in terrestrial infrastructure and enabling customers to stay connected even when they venture beyond conventional mobile coverage,” Sahu said.
ICT and National Guidance Minister Justine Kasule Lumumba said government had a responsibility to create an enabling policy environment for private investment and innovation in the ICT sector.
She said the satellite service would support connectivity and productivity across the economy, congratulating Airtel and Starlink on the partnership.
The launch makes Uganda the second Airtel Africa market to commercially deploy Starlink Mobile, with further expansion planned across the group’s footprint subject to regulatory approvals.
The company said satellite-to-mobile technology will complement, rather than replace, its existing terrestrial network as Airtel seeks to extend connectivity to areas that remain difficult to reach through conventional infrastructure.