NewSpace Africa Conference opens in Libreville, focuses on inclusive growth in space sector
Date: 2026-04-20
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
The
NewSpace Africa Conference has officially opened in Libreville, Gabon, bringing
together leading figures from across the continent’s space ecosystem to advance
discussions on how space technology can drive inclusive development across
Africa.
The
event, themed “Inclusive Growth: Expanding Space Benefits to All Africans,” is
convened by Space in Africa in partnership with the African Space Agency and
hosted by the Agence Gabonaise d'Études et d'Observations Spatiales.
The
conference brings together policymakers, industry leaders, innovators, and
researchers to explore how space-based technologies can be leveraged to support
socioeconomic development and broaden access to critical services across the
continent.
The
opening session featured remarks from key stakeholders shaping Africa’s space
agenda, including Managing Director of Space in Africa Temidayo Oniosun,
Director General of AGEOS Aboubakar Mambimba Ndjoungui, and President of the
Council of the African Space Agency Tidiane Ouattara.
Organisers
noted that the discussions will focus on strengthening collaboration, improving
governance frameworks, and positioning space technology as a key pillar of
Africa’s development strategy. A fireside chat with Dr. Tidiane Ouattara
further explored the agency’s mission and the role of cooperative governance in
advancing the continent’s space ambitions.
The
conference is expected to generate key insights and partnerships aimed at
accelerating the integration of space solutions into Africa’s development
priorities.
