East Africa discusses regional satellite integration to strengthen connectivity
Date: 2026-04-30
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
East
African countries are stepping up efforts to integrate satellite technologies
into regional connectivity frameworks as part of broader plans to expand
digital access and improve network resilience.
The
discussions took place on the sidelines of the Connected Africa Summit 2026
under the Northern Corridor Integration Projects (NCIP), where Kenya’s Cabinet
Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, William
Kabogo Gitau, chaired a high-level meeting involving ministers and senior
officials from Uganda, South Sudan, and Rwanda.
Kenya’s
Principal Secretary for ICT and Digital Economy, John Kipchumba Tanui,
highlighted the growing importance of satellite technologies in complementing
existing fibre infrastructure. He noted that satellite systems are critical for
extending connectivity to remote and underserved areas, supporting landlocked
countries, and enhancing overall network reliability across the region.
Participants
emphasized that combining terrestrial fibre networks with satellite solutions
would create a more inclusive and resilient digital ecosystem, ensuring broader
access to communication services and reducing digital inequality.
The
meeting brought together key regional stakeholders, including Uganda’s Minister
of ICT and National Guidance Chris Baryomunsi and South Sudan’s Minister of ICT
and Postal Services Ateny Wek Ateny, alongside senior government officials
responsible for telecommunications and digital infrastructure.
Deliberations
focused on advancing regional communication systems, including satellite-based
initiatives, as part of efforts to strengthen cross-border connectivity and
support the One Network Area framework. Officials also underscored the need for
coordinated investment and joint implementation to accelerate the development
of shared infrastructure.
The
engagement reflects increasing regional alignment on leveraging satellite
technology as a key enabler of digital transformation, economic integration,
and inclusive growth across East Africa.
