Airtel Africa has successfully tested satellite-powered internet connectivity on a moving train — a first-of-its-kind breakthrough in Sub-Saharan Africa’s digital infrastructure. The pilot proved that uninterrupted high-speed internet can now be delivered across 669 kilometres of remote, forested terrain where traditional cell towers and fibre optics have long been unable to reach.
A Breakthrough for African Railways Connectivity
For decades, Africa’s railway systems have served as lifelines, transporting millions of tonnes of goods and thousands of passengers every year. Yet, much of the railway network cuts through regions without modern connectivity — limiting both operational efficiency and passenger experience.
That gap may now be closing. With Airtel Africa’s successful satellite trials, railways can now enjoy reliable internet coverage throughout their journey, regardless of geography. This advancement could redefine what it means to travel, work, and operate in some of the continent’s most isolated regions.
How the Pilot Worked
The trial was powered by Airtel Satellite for Business in collaboration with Eutelsat OneWeb, which operates a constellation of low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites. These satellites orbit much closer to Earth than traditional ones, providing faster and more stable connections with significantly reduced latency.
The tests were conducted over a 669-kilometre route connecting key cities in Sub-Saharan Africa. Throughout the journey, the train maintained a strong and stable internet connection — even while passing through dense forests and hilly terrain.
Speed tests recorded up to 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload, aligning perfectly with Airtel’s target for the pilot. The connection remained robust across almost the entire route, demonstrating that high-speed internet in motion is now a viable reality for Africa’s rail sector.
Beyond Connectivity: The Impact on Railways
This milestone represents more than just a technological achievement — it’s a foundation for smart railways in Africa.
For operators, satellite-enabled connectivity enables real-time monitoring of train systems, predictive maintenance, and instant communication in emergencies. It also allows for seamless tracking of freight, improving logistics and reducing operational costs.
For passengers, the benefits are even more tangible. Reliable internet means onboard Wi-Fi, digital ticketing, real-time travel updates, and even streaming or online work during journeys. In essence, long-distance train travel could soon feel more like being in a mobile office or entertainment hub.
A Step Forward for Digital Inclusion
Airtel’s trial highlights a larger story — the rapid expansion of satellite broadband across Africa. From oil fields in Nigeria to mining sites in Zambia, and now moving trains, satellite internet is emerging as a practical solution to Africa’s persistent connectivity gaps.
With the success of this test, Airtel plans to expand its Airtel Satellite for Business services across Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Zambia, Madagascar, and Gabon. These deployments will connect industries and communities in regions that have never experienced high-speed broadband before.
According to Airtel, the results prove that satellite internet can deliver where other technologies cannot — offering low latency, high throughput, and continuous performance, even under the most challenging conditions.
Africa’s Connectivity Revolution
Africa’s digital landscape is shifting rapidly. The continent is seeing an influx of investments in LEO satellite constellations, AI-powered network management, and rural broadband expansion projects. Companies like Starlink, Avanti Communications, and Eutelsat OneWeb are racing to make high-speed connectivity accessible to every corner of the continent.
Airtel Africa’s satellite internet trial is therefore more than a company milestone — it’s a symbol of Africa’s leap toward inclusive digital transformation. By extending connectivity to areas once considered unreachable, it brings the continent closer to achieving universal internet access, one train line at a time.
