South Africa Marks New Era in Satellite Connectivity with Space42 Thuraya-4 Launch

Space42  has marked the launch of Thuraya-4 connectivity services in South Africa at an event held in Johannesburg under the patronage of President Cyril Ramaphosa, bringing mobile satellite communications coverage to the entire African continent for the first time. The gathering brought together government leaders, industry executives, technology partners and members of the media to highlight advancements in satellite-enabled connectivity and digital infrastructure across the region.

The program included live product demonstrations, along with presentations showcasing Space42’s geospatial intelligence and Earth observation capabilities. The company also outlined future initiatives, including Map Africa, aimed at supporting digital transformation efforts across the continent through data-driven technologies and enhanced connectivity solutions.

The event opened with a welcome address from Sulaiman Al Ali, Chief Commercial Officer at Space42. South Africa’s Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, delivered a keynote address focused on the country’s digital transformation strategy, while Fatima Yousef AlSuwaidi, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of the UAE, shared remarks reflecting international cooperation in the technology and connectivity space.

“I was truly honored to have the opportunity to meet H.E. Cyril Ramaphosa, the President of the Republic of South Africa during our recent visit and to present the vision and capabilities that Space42 is bringing to the country and the wider African continent. It was a privilege to walk through our expanding technology portfolio and to highlight the introduction of Thuraya services in the Republic of South Africa for the first time, a milestone that strengthens resilient and accessible connectivity across the region. I was particularly inspired by the President’s forward-looking vision and his commitment to accelerating digital progress and expanding connectivity to empower communities and industries across South Africa. The exchange of ideas and knowledge made this meeting both meaningful and energizing. At Space42, we remain committed to driving innovation, delivering advanced technologies, and supporting Africa’s digital future — with a strong focus on empowering the Republic of South Africa through sustainable and impactful solutions.

– Sulaiman Al Ali, Chief Commercial Officer, Space42 

A leadership panel, Satellite Solutions for National Development, examined the role of satellite infrastructure in advancing South Africa’s digital transformation and regional leadership ambitions. Panelists included Hon. Mondli Gungubele, Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Jacob Ssali, Economic Researcher at the UAE Embassy in Pretoria, Zunaid Bulbulia, Group Executive at Morevest, and Muiz Saad, Senior Vice President, Commercial at Space42. The discussion explored international partnerships in advanced technologies, the application of integrated satellite solutions across priority economic sectors, and how bilateral cooperation can build local capacity while creating opportunities for South African companies in the space sector.

Space42 extends its gratitude to the South African government, its partners, and all attendees for participating in this important gathering, which reinforces the company’s commitment to Africa’s digital future and SouthAfrica’s role as a regional technology hub.