MTN Group has completed a successful direct-to-cell satellite trial in Zambia using technology from Starlink, marking a step toward commercial satellite-to-mobile connectivity in the country.
The trial, conducted by MTN Zambia, enabled a mobile device to connect directly to Starlink’s low-Earth orbit satellite network, supporting activities such as internet browsing and a fintech transaction. The service could be launched commercially in the coming weeks, subject to regulatory approval.
The initiative aims to help close network coverage gaps, particularly in remote and sparsely populated areas where building traditional telecom infrastructure such as towers and fibre is costly.
MTN has been exploring satellite-to-mobile connectivity to extend coverage, following a previous trial conducted with Lynk Global. The approach leverages low-Earth orbit satellites, which offer improved speeds and lower latency compared to traditional satellite systems.
The latest trial was conducted in collaboration with Zambia’s Ministry of Technology and Science and the Zambia Information and Communication Technology Authority.
source : www.businessday.co.za
