Vodacom Group has signed a satellite broadband deal with Starlink.

As part of the agreement, Starlink will help deliver low-latency broadband Internet to millions of businesses across Africa and expand rural network coverage.

The telco will integrate Starlink's satellite backhaul into its mobile network to increase network performance in rural areas. Vodacom claims the Starlink agreement will "deliver robust connectivity to remote schools, health centers, and communities, empowering millions with access to digital services and information."

At present, Starlink has around 8,900 satellites in orbit, while its services are available in 25 African markets.

Vodacom will also resell Starlink’s services directly to enterprise customers.

"Low Earth orbit satellite technology will help bridge the digital divide where traditional infrastructure is not feasible, and this partnership will unlock new possibilities for the unconnected," said Shameel Joosub, chief executive officer, Vodacom Group.

In a separate interview with Reuters, Joosub said that Vodacom will still work with other satellite providers, naming Starlink's rivals, AST SpaceMobile and Amazon Kuiper.

Vodacom serves more than 220 million customers across several African markets, including its home market, South Africa, as well as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Lesotho, Mozambique, and Tanzania.

No details around a launch date for planned services were revealed by Vodacom, though the agreement will likely need to meet regulatory approvals.

Starlink has carved out several high-profile satellite connectivity deals with telcos across the world in recent years.

The company notably has strong ties with T-Mobile in the US, helping the carrier to launch its nationwide satellite service. Last month, UK telco Virgin Media O2 also signed a direct-to-cell deal agreement with the company.