By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
Space
in Africa, in collaboration with the African Space Agency (AfSA), has announced
the launch of the 2026 Young African Space Professionals Award, aimed at
recognising and supporting emerging talent across Africa’s growing space
sector.
The
initiative will select 10 outstanding students and young professionals under
the age of 35 who are making significant contributions to space policy,
innovation, and sustainability. Award recipients will be spotlighted at the
NewSpace Africa Conference 2026, scheduled to take place in Libreville, Gabon.
Successful
applicants will receive full registration to the conference, round-trip flights
and accommodation, access to VIP networking and tourism activities, as well as
a daily subsistence allowance. The award is designed to remove financial
barriers and provide young professionals with meaningful exposure to industry
leaders, policymakers, and global space stakeholders.
The
organisers noted that the programme reflects a shared commitment to nurturing
Africa’s next generation of space leaders and strengthening the continent’s
role in the global space ecosystem.
Applications
for the 2026 Young African Space Professionals Award close on February 28,
2026.
