Communications Authority Scrutinise Airtel-Starlink Direct-to-Cell Deal Over Interference Fears

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has launched a formal regulatory review into a landmark partnership between Airtel and SpaceX’s Starlink, amid growing concerns that satellite signals could disrupt the country’s existing mobile networks.

This proposed deal aims to deploy “direct-to-cell” technology, which allows standard smartphones to connect directly to Starlink’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites without the need for specialized hardware.

However, regulators are currently assessing whether these orbital transmissions will cause harmful interference with ground-based 3G, 4G, and 5G infrastructure.

At the heart of the inquiry is the challenge of maintaining “spectrum integrity,” as the service introduces space-based signals into frequency bands traditionally reserved for terrestrial towers.

Consequently, the CA confirmed it is examining a formal application from Airtel Networks Kenya Limited to determine if satellite mobile coverage can operate within existing rules without degrading service for millions of current users.

While expanding coverage to underserved regions remains a national priority, officials stressed that protecting the performance of existing networks remains a core mandate.

Airtel Africa has partnered with SpaceX to roll out these services across 14 markets.

Under the current roadmap, the service will initially support internet-based messaging and voice apps, such as WhatsApp, before expanding to native carrier calls and SMS in 2028.

As of March 2026, Starlink’s global presence has grown significantly, with approximately 9,920 active units in orbit, including a specialized fleet of 650 direct-to-cell units.

Since its July 2023 Kenyan launch, Starlink has captured 98% of the local satellite market, though its total fixed-internet share remains at 0.8%.

The regulatory hurdle comes at a time of shifting market dynamics within the country.

Latest industry figures indicate that Safaricom maintains a lead with 62.9% of the mobile broadband market and 63.4% of voice traffic, while Airtel has solidified its position as a challenger brand with 32.7% of broadband and 36.2% of voice traffic.

Furthermore, the race for space-based connectivity is intensifying; on March 9, 2026, MTN Zambia became the first African operator to complete successful field tests, and Amazon’s Project Kuiper signaled its intention to enter the Kenyan market on March 2, 2026.

While the CA weighs the risks of signal “noise” and reduced throughput, the industry is moving toward a hybrid connectivity model.

Rather than replacing terrestrial towers, satellite connectivity is expected to act as a supplemental layer for rural areas where fiber and towers are economically unviable.

If cleared, the Airtel-Starlink partnership will provide a critical bridge for those outside the reach of traditional infrastructure, though full native calling capabilities are not scheduled for deployment until 2028.