Angola Launches New Connectivity Hub to Democratise Satellite Access
Angola has launched a new connectivity hub dedicated to democratising access to communications through its ANGOSAT-2 satellite, targeting startups, Internet Service Providers (ISPs), and telecommunications operators to support connectivity in remote and underserved regions.
The National Space Programme Management Office (GGPEN) inaugurated and presented the facility at the Satellite Control and Mission Centre (MCC) in Funda. It serves as a central interconnection point designed to simplify technical and commercial access to ANGOSAT-2 services, particularly for business models based on Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) systems.
The new hub directly provides access to the satellite’s capabilities and supports connectivity solutions in underserved and remote areas where terrestrial networks remain limited or unavailable.
Lowering Barriers for Smaller Companies
According to Dr Zolana João, the General Manager of GGPEN, the hub is intended to lower entry barriers for smaller companies by reducing technical complexity and streamlining commercial processes. This approach is expected to accelerate project deployment and enable service providers to extend connectivity to regions that previously lacked network access.
Additonally, The infrastructure reinforces the State’s commitment to democratising access to telecommunications and expanding connectivity throughout Angola, allowing any startup or telecommunications operator to access ANGOSAT-2’s capabilities in a simple and direct manner.
Launch of Conecta Angola Commercial Portal
The inauguration also featured the launch of the Conecta Angola Commercial portal, a digital platform that centralises requests for satellite kits, services, and capacity related to ANGOSAT-2. The platform improves transparency, efficiency, and speed in service contracting for private-sector users.
Companies will be able to request ANGOSAT-2 kits, services, and capabilities in an integrated and transparent manner, acting as partners with the government in the mission of reducing digital exclusion by bringing internet services to remote areas of the country.
Building on ANGOSAT-2’s Success
The new hub strengthens the Conecta Angola Social and Commercial Programme, which currently provides 31 connectivity points and has reached more than 366 citizens, many of them in areas that previously lacked network access.
Since the launch of ANGOSAT-2 on 12 October 2022, the Angola Space Programme has achieved key milestones, including supporting and migrating local telecom operators to ANGOSAT-2 and delivering first-time connectivity through Conecta Angola.