MTN Zambia has completed Africa’s first field test of Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell technology.
The trial successfully sent both a data session and a mobile money transaction through satellites. This achievement could significantly extend network coverage to remote parts of the country.
The telecom operator stated that the trial used MTN’s spectrum alongside Starlink’s satellite constellation. This setup allowed a mobile device to connect directly to space-based infrastructure instead of relying on a traditional ground tower.
The companies confirmed that the test successfully carried the country’s first fintech transaction and data connection through the system. This marks a major milestone for satellite-to-phone connectivity in Africa.
Once approved by regulators, the service could enable customers to make voice and video calls. Users would also access messaging apps such as WhatsApp, as well as financial and navigation services in areas without terrestrial networks.
Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell satellites operate like cellphone towers in orbit. They use phased-array antennas to link directly with LTE-compatible smartphones. The satellites relay signals through Starlink’s global network, connecting to telecom operators’ existing systems in a manner similar to roaming arrangements.
MTN Zambia explained that the technology would help extend coverage to sparsely populated regions. These include national parks, rural settlements, and communities separated by rivers and water bodies where building ground infrastructure is challenging.
The companies plan to advance toward commercial deployment in the coming weeks. This move remains subject to approval from Zambia’s communications regulator.
MTN Zambia expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Technology and Science and the Zambia Information and Communication Technology Authority (ZICTA). The operator thanked them for supporting the testing process.
Satellite-to-mobile technology attracts close attention from telecom operators across Africa. It offers a potential solution to persistent coverage gaps, particularly in large rural areas beyond the reach of conventional cellular towers.
