Airtel Africa eyes expanded coverage and satellite connectivity in Kenya push
The Mt Kenya Times 
Sunil Taldar, Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Africa. Photo/Courtesy.
By Felix Njenga
Airtel Africa Chief Executive Officer Sunil Taldar has underscored Kenya’s strategic importance to the company, citing high mobile and financial services penetration as key drivers behind renewed investment in network expansion and next-generation connectivity solutions.
Speaking on the company’s growth plans, Taldar noted that Kenya stands out as one of the most mature telecom markets on the continent, with smartphone penetration exceeding 60 percent and widespread adoption of digital financial services. “This is a very attractive market for us,” he said, pointing to strong demand for both voice and data services.
Airtel Africa currently covers approximately 91 percent of the population in Kenya, a milestone Taldar described as significant but not sufficient. The company is now focusing on closing the remaining coverage gap while simultaneously enhancing data capacity to meet rising consumer demand.
“We are constantly expanding our coverage,” Taldar said, adding that Airtel is investing heavily in infrastructure upgrades to improve network quality and ensure a superior data experience for customers.
A major hurdle in extending connectivity to remote and underserved regions has been transmission, commonly referred to as backhaul. To address this challenge, Airtel Africa has entered into strategic partnerships, including one with Starlink, aimed at leveraging satellite technology to bridge connectivity gaps.
According to Taldar, the initial agreement with Starlink enables Airtel to transport traffic from remote areas to central hubs, where it can then be routed through international gateways. This approach significantly reduces the cost and complexity of deploying traditional terrestrial infrastructure in sparsely populated regions.
Building on this, Airtel has announced a second agreement focused on direct-to-cell satellite connectivity—a groundbreaking development that could redefine mobile coverage across the continent. The service will allow Airtel customers to remain connected even in areas beyond the reach of conventional network infrastructure.
“Wherever the telecom infrastructure doesn’t reach, our customers will still be connected through satellite coverage using their existing devices,” Taldar explained. The solution is expected to work seamlessly across all 14 markets where Airtel Africa operates.
If approved, Airtel Africa would become the first telecom operator in Africa to roll out direct-to-cell satellite connectivity at scale. The company is currently engaging regulators across its markets, including Kenya, to secure the necessary approvals.
In Kenya, discussions with the communications regulator are ongoing, and Taldar expressed optimism about a positive outcome.
“As soon as we get the approval, we will launch these services,” he said.
Industry analysts view Airtel’s move as a significant step toward universal connectivity, particularly in regions where traditional infrastructure deployment has proven economically unviable. By integrating satellite technology with its existing network, Airtel Africa aims to accelerate digital inclusion and unlock new opportunities in education, healthcare, and commerce.
As competition intensifies in Kenya’s telecom sector, Airtel’s investment in both terrestrial and satellite-based solutions signals a long-term commitment to innovation and market leadership.
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