Airtel Africa and Starlink have launched a satellite-to-mobile service in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), marking the first commercial deployment of this technology in Africa.

• The service, launched on August 14, allows compatible smartphone users to access connectivity in areas without traditional mobile network coverage.
• Key players include Airtel Africa, led by CEO Sunil Taldar, and Starlink (a SpaceX company).
• The service currently supports SMS and WhatsApp messaging, with plans to expand device compatibility and coverage to other African markets pending regulatory approvals.