Addis Ababa-
Africa marked a historic milestone last week with the inauguration of the African Space Agency (AfSA) headquarters in Cairo, Egypt—a strategic initiative years in the making since the African Union’s adoption of its space policy framework in 2016. A key deliverable of Agenda 2063’s Outer Space Strategy, underscores the continent’s unified commitment to leveraging space technologies for socio-economic growth, scientific innovation, and enhanced international collaboration.
HE Moses Vilakati, Commissioner for ARBE and Acting Commissioner for ETTIM with other dignitaries at the inauguration in Cairo, Egypt
The establishment of AfSA’s permanent base represents a transformative step in Africa’s journey toward sovereign space capabilities, enabling critical applications in Earth observation for food security, climate resilience, disaster management, and satellite communications. As an Agenda 2063 flagship project, AfSA will drive continental priorities including climate adaptation, digital transformation, and sustainable development. Hosted by Egypt, with its strong space heritage and infrastructure, the agency is poised to accelerate pan-African cooperation in space science and technology.
At the inauguration ceremony, H.E. Mr. Moses Vilakati (representing the AUC Chairperson), was joined by Egypt’s Prime Minister (represented by H.E. Dr. Ayman Ashour), Angola’s Minister of Telecommunications, and Egypt’s Foreign Minister, symbolizing a shared vision for an empowered Africa in the global space arena.
As AfSA begins operations, it opens new frontiers for innovation, youth empowerment, and sustainable development—proving that Africa’s space ambitions, as envisioned in Agenda 2063, are no longer aspirational but achievable. The agency stands ready to transform Africa’s space potential into tangible benefits for all its citizens.
AfSA’s governance is structured through the African Space Council. H.E. Dr Tidiane Ouattara, President of the AfSA Council, and Ms Thandikile Mbvundula, Vice President.
Credit: AUC
