Airtel Uganda has launched a satellite-to-mobile service with Starlink that allows customers with compatible smartphones to send SMS and use light-data applications such as WhatsApp in areas outside conventional mobile network coverage.
The service, launched Thursday at the Kampala Marriott Hotel, makes Uganda the second African market where Airtel Africa has commercially introduced Starlink Mobile, following the Democratic Republic of Congo, which launched the service in August.
The launch was attended by ICT and National Guidance Minister Justine Kasule Lumumba, Uganda Communications Commission Executive Director Nyombi Thembo, Airtel Africa CEO Sunil Taldar and Airtel Uganda Managing Director and CEO Soumendra Sahu.
The technology is designed to complement Airtel’s terrestrial network rather than replace it. It connects compatible phones to Starlink satellites when conventional mobile coverage is unavailable.
Taldar said the service is part of Airtel Africa’s wider effort to extend connectivity beyond areas covered by its existing infrastructure.
“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.
Sahu said the satellite network would add another layer to Airtel Uganda’s existing 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.
No satellite dish required
Unlike traditional satellite internet services, Starlink Mobile does not require customers to install a dish or carry a separate device. Users need a compatible smartphone and a clear view of the sky when they are outside terrestrial network coverage.
The service currently supports SMS and light-data applications, including WhatsApp messaging. Airtel has not announced voice calling as part of the service.
Eligible customers can register through the MyAirtel App and receive a 30-day free trial. Airtel’s launch information says customers will then require an eligible Airtel data bundle to continue using the service.
The service is currently limited to compatible Android smartphones. Airtel Uganda has said it will announce when support for iPhones becomes available.
To register, customers open the MyAirtel App, select “View All” under “Quick Actions” and choose the Starlink option. Once registered, the satellite connection can be used when the phone is outside conventional mobile coverage.
UCC links service to coverage obligations
Thembo said the regulator had licensed Starlink to provide satellite services in Uganda and enabled infrastructure-sharing arrangements with established mobile operators.
“This collaboration marks a transformative milestone, harnessing cutting-edge satellite technology to expand connectivity across Uganda,” he said.
He said national mobile operators are required under their licensing conditions to achieve 90% geographical coverage, including difficult terrain such as islands, mountains and forests.
“At the Uganda Communications Commission, our primary mission is to build a modern, accessible, and inclusive communications sector,” he said.
“To achieve this, we licensed Starlink to provide satellite services and enabled infrastructure-sharing arrangements with established operators.”
The UCC said its regulatory approach allows operators to use different technologies, including satellite services, to meet connectivity objectives. The Commission said it will monitor the new service for quality, reliability and consumer protection.
Government sees wider economic use
Lumumba said government wants to create a policy environment that supports private investment and innovation in the ICT sector.
“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.”
The minister also welcomed the prospect of connectivity reaching islands in Lake Victoria, including areas around Migingo, where she comes from.
She said:
“Government remains committed to a supportive policy environment that enables innovation to solve real problems and transform Uganda into a digitally enabled society.”
She added:
“I congratulate Airtel for pioneering this and leading innovation.”
The service could be useful to people and organisations operating beyond the reach of conventional mobile networks, including transport operators, humanitarian organisations, health workers, farmers, mining operations and remote communities. It could also provide an alternative communication channel when terrestrial networks are temporarily disrupted.
The rollout follows a partnership between Airtel Africa and SpaceX announced in December 2025 to introduce Starlink satellite-to-mobile services across Airtel Africa’s markets, subject to regulatory approvals. Airtel has said the service will be progressively introduced in other African markets.
The launch came a day after the death of veteran Ugandan musician Moses Matovu, a founding member and longtime leader of Afrigo Band. Matovu, 77, died at Kibuli Hospital on Thursday after being attacked in Kibuli Market Zone B in Makindye Division, according to police and local reports. Police are investigating the circumstances of his death.
The Airtel launch event ended with a one-minute musical tribute to Matovu.
