Orbiting Innovations Series: Exploring Satellites’ Role in Africa’s Digital Transformation

Africa’s digital future depends on reliable connectivity. Yet, vast rural areas remain off the grid, missing out on the opportunities that come with reliable internet access. Traditional infrastructure often struggles to reach these remote communities due to geographic and economic challenges. This gap slows down progress in education, healthcare, business, and government services.   

Satellite technology is changing that story. It offers a new way to bridge the divide, bringing connectivity from the skies to places where cables and towers can’t reach. Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, in particular, are reshaping telecommunications by providing faster, more reliable connections that are transforming lives and economies. 

Introducing the “Orbiting Innovations” — A Yearlong Journey into Satellite Tech 

Through exclusive interviews, stories, expert insights, and in-depth analysis, the Orbiting Innovations series from TechAfrica News will explore how satellite technology is powering Africa’s digital transformation. We will spotlight the breakthroughs, challenges, and opportunities shaping this rapidly evolving industry.  

Powered by SES  and ST Engineering iDirect , “Orbiting Innovations” brings you the voices and visions driving this revolution. Over the coming months, this series will be your window into the future of African satellite connectivity where innovation meets impact—from above, for Africa’s growth on the ground.  

“The ‘Orbiting Innovations’ series is our commitment to shining a spotlight on satellite technology as a true game-changer for Africa’s connectivity and digital future. This isn’t about company brands or products. It’s not about who delivers the technology — it’s about the technology itself and the incredible impact it can have across the continent. We are giving satellites the dedicated space they deserve to tell their story, highlight innovations, and explore how they are transforming lives from above.”
– Akim Benamara, Chief Editor and Founder, TechAfrica News

 

Why Satellites? Why Now? 

Because the Connectivity Conversation Has Evolved—And So Has the Orbit 

In Africa, where ground infrastructure is often spoken of as a limitation, space has quietly become one of the continent’s boldest assets. Not just in scale, but in intent. We’re seeing a recalibration. Satellites aren’t emerging as saviors for the underserved but they’re becoming tools of strategic expansion—for enterprises eyeing edge operations, for governments engineering smarter service delivery, and for innovators who aren’t waiting for fiber to arrive before they build.   

“The impact of this can’t be overstated. Improved connectivity lays the foundation for economic growth by enabling businesses, even in the most remote areas, to tap into global markets. It also bridges the digital divide, allowing communities to access essential services like education, healthcare, and financial tools. This, in turn, empowers individuals and strengthens local economies.” 
– Emma Park, Senior Vice President of Growth and Strategy, ST Engineering iDirect 

What’s changed isn’t just the hardware—it’s the context. LEO constellations are finally closing the performance gap. Cloud-native networks are meeting orbital capacity in real time. Direct-to-device is moving from technical aspiration to commercial reality. This convergence isn’t theoretical—it’s market-ready, and more importantly, continent-critical.  

MTN’s group’s President and CEO, Ralph Mupita, captures the crux of the shift in an episode of the TechAfrica News Podcast saying:  

“I see LEO and non-terrestrial networks as an opportunity—one we must all embrace. We’re moving into a world where we are always connected. Whether we’re climbing Mount Kilimanjaro or floating in the middle of Lake Victoria, connectivity will just be there. Satellites aren’t here to replace terrestrial networks. They’re here to complement them, especially in remote regions and over water bodies where traditional infrastructure can’t reach. At MTN, we see this playing out in three clear ways: enterprise backhaul, home broadband, and direct-to-device connectivity. Even as satellite operators move toward delivering services directly to consumers, this isn’t a threat—it’s an evolution. One that pushes all of us to reimagine infrastructure, access, and reach.”
— Ralph Mupita, CEO and President, MTN Group 

In this series, we’re looking at who’s building the next phase of this ecosystem, how investment is shifting, and what innovation looks like when it’s grounded in purpose, not just performance.  

“First of all, multi-orbit. Our view of the world is that, in just a few years, people won’t be talking about LEO or GEO or any specific orbit. They’ll simply talk about a space terminal, because that terminal will give you access to whatever satellite or space connection you need—whether it’s low orbit, high orbit, or the middle. That multi-orbit vision is unique for us and extremely important.”   
– Jerry Collins, Director, Networks Product Management, Intelsat  

 

What’s Coming: Stories, Panels, and the Satellite Landscape 

Throughout the year, expect a rich mix of content formats built to deliver insight with precision: 

• Virtual panels convening experts across telecom, policy, and tech, tackling the real challenges and opportunities satellite presents. 

• Podcasts that bring satellite stories to life through conversations with the people building and benefiting from this ecosystem. 

• Story of the Month: Each month, we bring one transformative story— highlighting breakthroughs and innovations that move the needle for communities and businesses. 

• Landscape sheets providing clear, visual overviews of the satellite ecosystem — the key players, emerging trends, and critical milestones shaping Africa’s future from orbit. 

• Surveys and community voices gathering the perspectives of those on the ground and in the boardrooms alike, offering a holistic view of adoption and impact. 

This is a long-term editorial commitment. We will follow the industry’s trajectory with a keen eye on who’s driving real change, how policy and partnerships evolve, and what it means for Africa’s people and economy. 

Look out for special features, including an industry report launching at MWC Kigali in October, exclusive Q&As with regulators like Kenya’s Communications Authority, and on-the-ground coverage from landmark events.  

“This series is more than content. It’s a strategic lens on how satellite technology is shaping policy, business models, and social impact across Africa. We’re here to spotlight the trailblazers, illuminate emerging trends, and explore what satellite connectivity means for real people and economies.” 
– Joyce Onyeagoro, Senior Editor, TechAfrica News  

 

We’re watching the satellite industry closely
And so should you

As Africa redefines what it means to be connected, Orbiting Innovations will stay on the frontlines of the story. We’ll trace how satellite technology is no longer the future—it’s the infrastructure of now.  

“Where terrestrial networks can’t reach, satellite steps in – not just to connect, but to empower. From powering village Wi-Fi to enabling edge Al for farmers, we’re redefining what is possible.”
– Simon Gatty Saunt, Vice President Sales Europe & Africa, SES  

From direct-to-device connectivity that finally breaks through barriers to access, to smart villages where digital opportunity is designed into rural life. From satellites stepping in as first responders when disasters strike, to powering the networks behind inclusive banking and economic resilience.  

It’s about what’s really happening, who’s making it happen, and why it matters for Africa’s digital transformation.  

“It’s going to take a village—governments, regulators, private companies, and universal service funds must work together to create the framework and provide the financing for connectivity initiatives. Strong partnerships are essential to making this vision a reality”
– Jean-Philippe Gillet, Senior Vice President, Media, Mobility & Networks, Intelsat 

We’re in it for the long haul. And we’re inviting you to join us.  Stay engaged as we map Africa’s next leap forward—one orbit at a time