Angola and UAE Sign Letter of Intent on Space Cooperation
Angola’s National Space Program Management Office (GGPEN) and the United Arab Emirates Space Agency (UAE Space Agency) have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to strengthen space cooperation between the two countries. The signing took place in Abidjan on the sidelines of the Africa Space Expo (ASPEX) 2026, where Angola is the Guest of Honour.
Dr Zolana Rui João, Director-General of GGPEN, and Eng. Salem Butti Salem Al Qubaisi, Director-General of the UAE Space Agency, signed the LOI. The Angolan Minister of Telecommunications, Information Technologies and Social Communication (MINTTICS), Eng. Mário Oliveira, witnessed the signing. So did Timothy Adi Ashong, Director of RASCOM, and the heads of the space agencies of South Africa, Senegal, Nigeria, and Dubai.
Scope of cooperation
The LOI is based on a shared interest in the peaceful uses of outer space. It covers cooperation in space science, technology, and applications, aiming to strengthen both national space programmes. The areas it names are:
- Access to and exchange of satellite data and information
- Development of Earth observation applications and services aligned with national and regional priorities
- Collaboration in satellite development and related technologies
- Joint research, innovation, and technical initiatives
- Exchange of expertise and best practices in space policy, governance, and regulation
- Capacity building, education, and professional training
Furthermore, human capital development is a central focus. The Participants intend to support it through training programmes, workshops, technical exchanges, internships, and knowledge-sharing activities. The LOI also allows both sides, by mutual consent and in line with applicable laws, to involve universities, research centres, government entities, and private-sector companies in the collaboration.
The instrument sets out an initial framework for cooperation. It does not create legally binding obligations. The parties will need to define specific projects and initiatives in separate agreements or understandings. The partnership’s delivery will therefore depend on follow-on instruments and whether they include named projects, funding, and timelines.
Why it matters
For Angola, the signing is a high-profile result of its Guest of Honour role at ASPEX 2026. It also adds a Gulf partner to GGPEN’s international network. The emphasis on EO applications, data exchange, and training reflects a focus on turning space infrastructure into services and local skills, not just acquiring assets.