Angola Embarks on Its Space Journey. President João Lourenço has announced the creation of the Angolan Space Agency, a key step toward strengthening the country’s technological independence and better harnessing satellite data. This new institution is part of the National Space Program, launched as Angola already operates ANGOSAT‑2, a communications satellite deployed in 2023, which connects over 150 rural areas across 16 provinces through the Connecta Angola project.
To strengthen its technological independence, reduce the digital divide, and make better use of satellite data, President João Lourenço announced on October 15 the creation of the Angolan Space Agency. This initiative is part of the country’s ongoing National Space Program and comes as Angola is already operating its telecommunications satellite, ANGOSAT‑2, launched in 2023. The satellite currently connects more than 150 rural localities across 16 of the country’s 18 provinces, notably through the Connecta Angola project.
When it comes to the space industry in Africa, it is clear that we will eventually need to grow. We will increasingly see the value in attracting foreign companies to collaborate with local players and do business. More specifically, within the space economy driven by the private sector, the timing is ideal.
Zolana Rui João, Director General of GGPEN
With the creation of this space agency, Angola now aims to transition from a mere user to a true producer of space technologies. With ANGOSAT‑2, a ground control infrastructure, and over 300 trained professionals, the country has established a solid foundation to develop a national space industry in a context where the telecommunications sector surpassed 25 million mobile subscribers in 2024.
We do not yet have the necessary ecosystem to study space in Africa. The main challenges we face involve funding, a lack of infrastructure, and limited human resources — all of which make it harder for young people to successfully engage in space programs.
Zolana Rui João, Director General of GGPEN
The space agency will be responsible for leading the national space strategy, overseeing ongoing projects, developing local expertise, promoting innovation, regulating space activities from a legal perspective, and building both national and international partnerships.
