In Angola, President João Lourenço has officially established the Angolan Space Agency, marking a significant step towards enhancing the nation’s technological autonomy and optimising the use of satellite data. This new agency is a crucial component of the National Space Program, which comes at a time when Angola has successfully launched ANGOSAT-2, a communications satellite, in 2023. This satellite facilitates connectivity for over 150 rural areas across 16 provinces via the Connecta Angola initiative.
To enhance its technological self-sufficiency, narrow the digital divide, and improve the utilisation of satellite data, President João Lourenço announced the formation of the Angolan Space Agency on October 15. This initiative is part of Angola’s broader National Space Program and coincides with the operation of ANGOSAT-2, the nation’s telecommunications satellite deployed in 2023. This satellite is pivotal in connecting more than 150 rural communities in 16 out of 18 provinces, especially through the Connecta Angola project.
Zolana Rui João, Director General of GGPEN, emphasised, “In the context of the African space industry, it is evident that growth is required. We will increasingly recognise the importance of attracting foreign companies to collaborate with local entities. The private sector-driven space economy is well-positioned for growth right now.”
With the establishment of the Angolan Space Agency, the country aims to evolve from solely a space technology consumer to becoming a producer in the field. Boasting ANGOSAT-2, a ground control framework, and a trained workforce of over 300 professionals, Angola is laying the groundwork for a national space industry, especially as its telecommunications sector has exceeded 25 million mobile subscribers in 2024.
However, challenges remain. Zolana Rui João says, “We lack the necessary ecosystem to foster space studies in Africa. Our main hurdles are funding, inadequate infrastructure, and limited human resources, all of which hinder the ability of young people to engage successfully in space initiatives.”
The newly formed space agency will spearhead the national space strategy, manage existing projects, cultivate local expertise, promote innovation, regulate legal aspects of space activities, and foster national and international collaborations.
