Day Three of the 2025 NewSpace Africa Conference: Event Excerpts
The third day of the 2025 NewSpace Africa Conference built on the success of the previous days to continue high-level discussions highlighting the experiences and uptake of space innovation, technologies, and applications among different stakeholders.
Read excerpts from the 2024 NewSpace Africa Conference Day Two here.
Status Updates on African Space Agencies’ Activities – Cohort 4
The fourth head of the space agency panel featured Amin Mestar, Secretary General, Algerian Space Agency, Prof Ouattara Frédéric, Former Minister, Ministry of Higher Education, Burkina Faso, Mohamed A. Ismail, Director, Space and Satellite, Ministry of Communication and Technology, Somalia and Dr Doreen Agaba, Technical Lead of the Department of Aeronautics and Space Science, Science, Technology and Innovation Secretariat, Uganda.
Mr Amin provided an overview of the country’s ongoing space activities, particularly on capacity building. A key priority remains the maintenance of operational capabilities across space systems, including satellite operations, data production and exploitation, and image calibration processes. He noted that Algeria focuses on key application areas such as Earth observation, telecommunications, and satellite-based positioning and navigation. Among its recent initiatives is using satellite imagery for environmental monitoring, including assessing regions affected by forest fires. In addition to mapping affected areas, satellite data has been used to develop risk maps identifying regions potentially vulnerable to future outbreaks.
The country is also leveraging hyperspectral satellite data to study the spatial distribution of pure elements and to detect the presence of rare metals such as tungsten, thereby contributing to the strategic management of natural resources. Algeria is establishing a permanent mechanism for monitoring and evaluating cereal crop seasons using satellite imagery in agriculture. This initiative is supported through targeted staff training and technical capacity building, ensuring sustained expertise in geospatial agricultural monitoring.
Professor Ouattara Frédéric from Burkina Faso highlighted that the country is focusing on renovating its round station, particularly ahead of the launch of its first satellite, BurkinaSat-1. Additionally, he noted that capacity building and training of personnel on the ground station software and other space-related activities are essential to the success of its space programme. Professor Ouattara also outlined that the country is investing in GNSS equipment and technology while also training students in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVS) operations.
Mohamed Ismail shared the history and vision of Somalia’s Space and Satellite Department, which was officially established in 2023 under the Ministry of Communication and Technology. The department was created with a clear mandate: to develop Somalia’s satellite technology and space sciences capacity while enabling international partnerships to accelerate progress. He recognised Turkey as Somalia’s most consistent and action-oriented space partner, providing critical support in areas such as training, infrastructure development, and strategic planning. Somalia is also advancing collaborations with the Egyptian Space Agency (EGSA), the Israeli Space Agency (ISA), and the Chinese government to facilitate technical assistance and knowledge exchange.
Framing space as a practical problem-solving tool, Ismail noted that an early assessment identified several pressing national challenges, chief among them, maritime security issues, including illegal fishing, persistent drought, and broader security concerns. Satellite imagery was underscored as a crucial asset in responding to these issues, enabling more effective monitoring and decision-making. The strategic objectives of Somalia’s space programme are fourfold: to develop a national space framework, to establish foundational infrastructure, to engage the Somali private sector, and to empower academic and research institutions. Looking ahead, the country envisions the eventual establishment of a satellite launch base and the execution of its own satellite missions in cooperation with trusted international partners.
Dr Doreen from Uganda presented an overview of the country’s space journey, tracing the establishment of its space initiatives and highlighting current operations. A central focus has been the renovation of a 32-metre dish antenna, which is being repurposed as a research and development facility to support space science activities. This effort is complemented by developing laboratories and ground stations to build a sustainable technical base. Adopting a collaborative and forward-looking approach, Uganda used its presentation to launch an open call for partnerships in the space ecosystem across six key areas, such as ground station optimisation.
She noted that there was a need to establish a regional framework for enhancing the utilisation and return on investment (ROI) of existing and emerging ground station infrastructure. The second was experimental missions. The country advocates collaboration for the design and execution of experimental satellite missions, particularly from academic institutions. These projects aim to strengthen innovation and hands-on learning in space engineering. Other key sectors highlighted were geospatial data handling, ionospheric modelling, specialised training & education, and geodetic modelling. This multifaceted approach underlines Uganda’s commitment to regional cooperation, knowledge sharing, and capacity building as cornerstones of its space development strategy.
Panel Session: Unlocking Capital for Africa’s Space Industry – Investment Trends and Infrastructure Financing
Moderated by Mustapha Iderawumi, Senior Analyst at Space in Africa, the high-level panel discussion explored how African governments and private entities can unlock capital to support infrastructure development within the space sector. Dr Sheriff Sedky, CEO of the Egyptian Space Agency, offered a government perspective on creating an enabling environment. He emphasised the strategic allocation of dedicated zones within Egypt’s Space City for a “technology zone”—an initiative to support shared, high-cost facilities. He noted that such efforts reduce duplication and facilitate access to critical infrastructure. Additionally, Sedky highlighted the importance of supporting the private sector and actively opening the market to foster public-private partnerships that can accelerate infrastructure growth.
Dr Zolana Joao shared practical insights from Angola’s journey to unlock national space funding. A key strategy was educating policymakers and stakeholders on the value of space investment. In its initial phase, Angola conducted an assessment to guide government involvement, highlighting inefficiencies. For example, the country spent approximately USD 300 million annually on leasing satellite capacity across various sectors. This evidence-based advocacy led to greater alignment between the space programme and national priorities, such as broadband expansion. These efforts culminated in a presidential directive in late 2024 authorising private sector participation in Angola’s space industry.
Ana-Mia Louw from Simera Sense, a leading manufacturer of optical payloads, discussed the investor confidence required to scale a space-based business. Their approach to attracting funding centres on demonstrating consistent, sustainable year-on-year revenue growth. Investors are reassured when risks are well understood and actively managed, primarily intellectual property risks, which recent investors have flagged as critical. Simera Sense noted that much of their funding is used to expand production capacity, enhance R&D, and venture into new product lines. They also invest in external infrastructure to mitigate operational risks and inventory to reduce long lead times.
Hazuki Mori, representing the World Economic Forum, spoke on Africa’s positioning in the evolving space economy. She noted that the global space sector is forecasted to reach USD 1.8 trillion, with 60% of equity investments coming from venture capital. However, a growing share of interest is being directed toward defence and security areas where governments are key drivers. She highlighted that the African Earth observation (EO) market would grow to USD 63 billion by 2033. She stressed the need for African actors to align with this trajectory proactively.
Italy-Africa Session
Dr Luca Maria Salamone, Director General, Italian Space Agency (ASI), gave an overview of Italy’s current activities and cooperation in Africa on space activities. One major highlight was the Luigi Broglio Space Centre in Malindi, Kenya, which has been a collaboration between Kenya and Italy for over 60 years. Recently, ASI renewed its agreement for Kenyan Personnel at the Luigi Broglio Space Centre, and Dr Luca highlighted that similar collaboration across Africa is welcome. Furthermore, a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Maria Chiara Noto, Deputy Director, International Affairs and Head of International Cooperation and Space Diplomacy, Italian Space Agency (ASI), followed. The session featured Dr. Sherif Sedky, CEO, Egyptian Space Agency, H.E. Thandikile Mbvundula, Vice President of the AfSA Council, Brigadier Hillary Kipkosgey, CEO, Kenya Space Agency and Mr Amin Mester, Secretary General, Algerian Space Agency.
During the dedicated Italy–Africa session, panellists’ discussions underscored Italy’s deepening engagement with African nations in the space sector, aligning with broader diplomatic initiatives such as the Italy–Africa Summit and the Mattei plan for Africa. The panel focused on the importance of bilateral agreements as the foundation for long-term collaboration. Italy’s presence in Africa—most notably through the Broglio Space Centre in Malindi, Kenya—has played a pivotal role in shaping cooperative frameworks that have facilitated the establishment of the Regional Earth Observation Centre. These partnerships are designed to support the scientific community and operational users across the continent. In addition, Italy is advancing plans for the International Centre for Space Education to support the training of African scientists and engineers, alongside a dedicated programme to promote CubeSat development across the continent. The session reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to capacity building, knowledge exchange, and infrastructure support, all tailored through bilateral arrangements to meet Africa’s evolving space ambitions.
US Pavilion Session
The afternoon sessions featured presentations by representatives from the United States, bringing together key players across the commercial space and technology sectors. The session included Abdikadir Awabdi (Astranis), Soha Rizk (CISCO), Dr. Rao S. Ramayanam (HawkEye360), Alex Fortescue (Maxar), Layla Mohsen (Princeton Satellite Systems), and Sri Reddy (Slingshot Aerospace). The panellists primarily used the opportunity to showcase their respective products, services, and technological capabilities, emphasising how these offerings could support Africa’s growing space and digital infrastructure ambitions. From satellite broadband and Earth observation data to spectrum monitoring, advanced analytics, and integrated security solutions, the session highlighted potential areas for collaboration and commercial engagement that could help unlock new opportunities across the continent’s space ecosystem.
Japan Pavilion Session
Japan also hosted a dedicated session spotlighting its growing partnerships with African nations in the space sector. The session reflected on Japan’s longstanding contributions to capacity building across the continent, particularly through initiatives such as the Kyushu University programme, which has supported many African countries in developing and launching their first satellites. Within the broader UNISEC Global framework, Japan supports practical training and academic collaboration in nanosatellite engineering. A notable highlight was Japan’s efforts in developing a nanosatellite-based IoT constellation to provide accessible and scalable connectivity solutions. This area aligns closely with Egypt’s national priorities, as emphasised by Dr. Sheriff Sedky. The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) also reaffirmed its commitment to international collaboration in Africa, offering both technical expertise and institutional support. The session demonstrated Japan’s leadership in advancing professional space capabilities across Africa, blending educational initiatives, technology transfer, and strategic cooperation to support long-term ecosystem growth.
Innovation Spotlights: Keynotes on Space Advancements
The “Innovation Spotlights: Keynotes on Space Advancements” session brought together leading international organisations to share cutting-edge developments and emerging trends shaping the global space landscape. From France, CNES addressed the growing influence of end-user needs in driving NewSpace trends, while also raising concern over sustainability issues such as orbital congestion and space debris. A key highlight was the Connect by CNES programme, designed to consolidate expertise and technical resources, with an open invitation for African partners to engage and contribute to ongoing and future collaborations.
ESRI, known for its geospatial technology, focused on the pressing issue of climate change. It demonstrates how satellite data tools are being used to monitor sea-level rise and other environmental indicators, providing critical insights for adaptation and resilience efforts. Meanwhile, US-based company Vast delivered a bold vision for the future of human activity in space. The company aims to enable long-term habitation and microgravity research in low Earth orbit. Vast is preparing to launch Haven-1, the world’s first commercial space station, in May 2026 aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. The station will utilise Starlink for high-speed connectivity, representing a significant public-private collaboration milestone. Having already passed key structural tests, Vast is on track to meet its timeline, aiming to establish a permanent microgravity research facility in space.
From Consumer to Global Contributor: Africa’s Satellite Manufacturing Ecosystem
The session titled offered a compelling exploration of how Africa is transitioning from being a consumer of space technologies to a recognised contributor on the global stage. Stefan opened the discussion by highlighting the twin challenges of ensuring access to capital and reliable data, both of which are essential for scaling satellite manufacturing activities across the continent. He underscored the importance of industry involvement and private sector engagement in navigating this path to growth.
James added a South African perspective, noting that South Africa has demonstrated the capacity to commercialise its space capabilities. With strong foundations in low-cost manufacturing, a skilled workforce, and a robust supply chain, NewSpace Systems has delivered over 2,000 spacecraft products accounting for approximately 20% of satellites globally. He emphasised that their current expansion plans are demand-driven, as existing facilities are nearing capacity.
Ana discussed the importance of building on historical capabilities and market intelligence to shape a standardised range of satellite products that can serve diverse applications. Drawing parallels to the Sentinel series, she explained their strategy of leveraging high-quality supply chains and focusing on versatility. Reflecting on her journey from engineer to manager, she pointed out how personal passion has driven her career progression. AAC Clyde Space shared insights on fostering innovation, pointing to how enabling environments can nurture emerging companies and talent. They stressed the importance of sustaining this trend, particularly as Africa’s NewSpace ecosystem evolves.
Cubespace concluded with a forward-looking perspective, acknowledging that African innovation is increasingly shaping global space manufacturing. The company has benefited directly and indirectly from funding and is actively exploring opportunities across the continent. Their growth strategy involves three pillars: scaling production to reduce lead times, investing in R&D, particularly for actuators suited for larger spacecraft, and expanding internationally. They also called for a mindset shift, encouraging the continent to recognise and assert itself as a market and a global contributor, setting a benchmark for other African companies to follow.