African Space Agency highlights Angola’s progress at NewSpace Africa 2026

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye

The Chairman of the Board of the African Space Agency (AfSA), Dr. Tidiane Ouattara, has highlighted the progress of Angola’s National Space Program, describing it as a strong example of Africa’s growing capabilities in the space sector.

Speaking during a meeting with African space agencies at the NewSpace Africa Conference 2026 in Libreville, Gabon, Dr. Ouattara credited the Government of Angola for its sustained investment and strategic vision in developing its national space programme under the coordination of the Ministry of Telecommunications, Information Technologies and Social Communication.

He noted that Angola’s advancements reflect a broader transformation within the continent’s space ecosystem, emphasizing the importance of innovation, capacity building, and long-term commitment to scientific development across African states.

The discussion formed part of a wider engagement that brought together representatives from major African space agencies, including Algeria, Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, and Angola, during one of the continent’s largest space industry gatherings held from April 20 to 23.

Angola’s delegation participated in multiple panels focused on connectivity and space-enabled services, as well as strategic meetings with international stakeholders and private sector actors interested in opportunities within the country’s growing space sector.

The delegation also took part in a meeting of African Space Agency directors, where progress updates on AfSA initiatives were reviewed alongside upcoming activities. These include planned training programmes for young professionals and expanded opportunities for member states to participate in continental space development initiatives.

According to AfSA leadership, such engagements are central to strengthening collaboration across Africa’s space agencies and accelerating the continent’s ability to leverage space technology for socio-economic development.