Kenya’s Communications Authority (CA) has officially commenced a technical evaluation of Airtel’s application to utilise Starlink’s ‘Direct-to-Cell’ technology within the nation. This review aims to determine whether Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite signals intended for mobile devices might interfere with existing 3G, 4G, and 5G terrestrial networks. This move could set a significant global standard for the interplay between satellite and mobile communications.
During a press briefing in Nairobi last month, Airtel Africa’s CEO, Sunil Taldar, announced plans to leverage Starlink’s capabilities to enhance Airtel’s mobile internet market presence in Kenya. Taldar highlighted that the advanced Direct-to-Cell system is designed to deliver data speeds up to twenty times faster than early satellite-to-phone trials. This technology is a potential solution for bridging connectivity gaps in areas where installing fibre-optic lines to cell towers is not feasible.
Airtel’s collaboration with Starlink is part of a larger initiative to implement this technology across the company’s 14 markets in Africa. Unlike conventional satellite internet, which requires bulky dishes and receivers, the Direct-to-Cell system enables most LTE-enabled smartphones to connect directly to LEO satellites, simplifying access.
However, the CA’s primary concern revolves around the possibility of spectrum interference. Kenyan mobile providers, including the dominant Safaricom, Airtel, and Telkom Kenya, rely on licensed terrestrial spectrum for their 3G, 4G, and 5G services. Since the Direct-to-Cell technology utilises similar frequencies for communication, there is a technical risk of signal disruption.
The regulator is actively investigating whether the satellite transmissions will be sufficiently robust to provide a stable connection while not overwhelming local cell towers. The CA seeks to ensure that satellite coverage complies with terrestrial regulations, maintains the quality of service for millions of existing users, and establishes clear geographic and power limitations for satellite transmissions.
Sunil Taldar has reiterated that the new service is intended to complement, not replace, ground-based networks. “We aim to keep our customers connected even beyond the reach of traditional towers,” Taldar commented.
The CA is expected to finalise its technical audit by mid-2026. Should the application receive approval, Airtel plans to implement the service in phases, initially introducing basic SMS and text messaging before advancing to high-speed data offerings.
