Airtel Africa and Starlink Launch Satellite-to-Mobile Service in Uganda
Airtel Africa and Starlink have launched their satellite-to-mobile service in Uganda. It is the second African market where the service is commercially available, after the first rollout in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on 14 August 2026.
The launch follows the partnership Airtel Africa and SpaceX announced in December 2025 to roll out Starlink’s direct-to-cell service across 14 of the Group’s markets. The technology was piloted in Kenya in March 2026, before the commercial launch in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
How the service works
Airtel Uganda customers with compatible smartphones can stay connected in areas terrestrial mobile networks do not reach, as long as they have a clear view of the sky. The service runs on Starlink’s satellite-to-mobile constellation of 650 launched satellites. It supports light-data applications, including WhatsApp messaging, as well as SMS. No specialised equipment, satellite dish or separate device is required.
Eligible customers can register through the MyAirtel App for a free 30-day introductory trial. After the trial, customers can access Starlink Mobile through eligible Airtel Uganda data bundles.
According to Airtel, the service is aimed at people and organisations working in remote areas, including transport and logistics operators, humanitarian organisations, farmers, mining operations and communities beyond the reach of existing terrestrial networks. Airtel says it will also support access to essential communications during emergencies, natural disasters and temporary disruptions to the terrestrial network.
Stakeholder remarks
Soumendra Sahu, Managing Director and CEO of Airtel Uganda, said: “This partnership is transforming how connectivity is delivered across Uganda. Starlink’s advanced satellite technology complements our ongoing investments in terrestrial infrastructure and enables customers to stay connected even when they venture beyond conventional mobile coverage.”
Nyombi Thembo, Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), commended Airtel Uganda for using emerging technologies to strengthen connectivity and help close coverage gaps across the country. “As part of Telecoms’ licensing obligations, Uganda’s mobile operators are required to achieve coverage across at least 90% of the country’s geographical area. This includes challenging terrains such as islands, mountainous regions, forests and other hard-to-reach areas. What matters now is that Ugandans, wherever they are located, have access to communication services,” he said.
Hon. Justine Kasule Lumumba, Minister of ICT and National Guidance, said: “As government, we have a responsibility to build an enabling policy environment to support private sector growth in ICT. With Starlink Mobile’s satellite technology, it supports increased productivity and connectivity across the economy. I want to take this opportunity to congratulate Airtel and Starlink on this partnership.”
According to Airtel Africa, the Uganda launch is the latest step in its rollout of Starlink satellite-to-mobile technology across its markets. The Group says this complements its continued investment in terrestrial network infrastructure and its ambition to extend connectivity to more people across Africa.