Starlink, Airtel Uganda to Launch Partnership on Friday

The technology is particularly useful for rural communities, islands, border areas and for providing backup connectivity when ground networks are disrupted

Kampala — Airtel Uganda will this Friday unveil a partnership with Elon Musk’s Starlink, aimed at improving mobile network coverage and reliability across Uganda, especially in remote and hard-to-reach areas.

The partnership, to be launched at an event in Kampala, is expected to help Airtel strengthen its network by using Starlink’s satellite technology to support connectivity in areas where fibre cables and masts are difficult or expensive to build.

The event, according to an invitation sent to stakeholders in the telecom industry, will be held at Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, Kampala.

Starlink uses thousands of small satellites that orbit close to the earth.

This allows it to deliver faster internet speeds and lower delays compared to traditional satellite systems.

The technology is particularly useful for rural communities, islands, border areas and for providing backup connectivity when ground networks are disrupted.

Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) recently said the process of licensing Starlink was underway before it could fully begin operations.

“I informed the media that the licensing process for Starlink Global Internet Services Ltd is still ongoing until all regulatory conditions are fulfilled,” UCC Executive Director Nyombi Tembo said on Monday.

“We appreciate Starlink’s recent efforts in deactivating illegal terminals as we maintain our engagement.”

Starlink switched off its service in Uganda on January 1, 2026, after UCC raised concerns about unlicensed satellite terminals that had been brought into the country without approval.

Tembo said Uganda welcomes new technologies but all operators must follow the law.

“Our aim is to establish a technology-neutral, predictable and fair regulatory framework,” he said.

For Airtel customers, the partnership could mean better network stability, wider coverage in rural areas and fewer disruptions, especially during peak demand or emergencies.