By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
Representatives
of three of Africa’s five largest space programmes have met in Luanda to
discuss opportunities in the lunar economy and strengthen international
cooperation within the continent’s growing space sector.
The
discussions took place during a plenary session titled “Lunar Economy and
International Cooperation,” organised by the National Space Programme
Management Office (GGPEN) as part of ANGOTIC 2026.
The
session brought together the Director General of GGPEN, Dr. Zolana João, the
Chief Executive Officer of the South African National Space Agency (SANSA),
Humbulani Mudau, and the Director General of the Nigerian Space Agency
(NASRDA), Dr. Matthew Olumide Adepoju. The three institutions represent some of
the most advanced space programmes in Africa and play a key role in the
continent’s expanding participation in global space activities.
The
event also featured a recorded message from Kathleen Karika, Associate
Administrator of the Office of International and Interagency Relations at NASA,
who commended the organisers of ANGOTIC 2026 for convening a platform that
brings together leaders and experts driving innovation and digital
transformation across Africa.
The
plenary was moderated by Space in Africa Chief Executive Officer Temidayo
Oniosun and included contributions from international experts such as Dr.
Danielle Wood of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Stéphane
Vesval of Airbus. Discussions focused on the emerging opportunities in the
lunar economy, the importance of international collaboration, and the future
trajectory of space exploration.
Participants
underscored the importance of strengthening partnerships between governments,
space agencies, academic institutions, and industry stakeholders to accelerate
technological advancement and economic development in Africa’s space sector.
