The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has initiated a technical audit of Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell (D2C) technology to determine if the satellite service will disrupt existing mobile networks. The move follows an application by Airtel Kenya to utilize Starlink’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites to provide connectivity to customers in remote areas where traditional cell towers are unavailable.
At the heart of the audit is the technical challenge of “spectrum sharing.” Unlike some satellite services that use dedicated frequencies, Starlink’s D2C service operates on the same spectrum used by terrestrial 3G, 4G, and 5G networks. While this allows users to connect via their standard smartphones without special hardware, it creates a risk of interference where satellite signals might “drown out” local cell towers. The CA’s investigation aims to establish strict geographic and power limits for these transmissions to ensure a seamless co-existence.
Airtel Africa, which partnered with SpaceX in late 2025, plans to roll out this service across 14 African markets once regulatory hurdles are cleared. The CA’s findings, expected by mid-2026, will set the precedent for how D2D (Direct-to-Device) satellite technology is governed in Kenya, balancing the need for universal coverage with the stability of established urban networks.
