Angola Emerges as Key Space Player as GGPEN Engages SADC on Satellite Cooperation
Tanzania and Botswana indicated interest in assessing the feasibility of implementing the project within their respective countries, as well as participating in ANGOTIC 2026 and forming strategic partnerships under space-related programs.
GGPEN participated in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Shared Satellite Forum held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, from February 16–20, 2026. The forum convened representatives from the 16 SADC Member States, alongside technical experts, regulatory authorities, and international partners, to review progress on the Regional Shared Satellite Network Project, align technical and regulatory strategies, and outline the next steps toward operationalizing the system.
During the forum, GGPEN presented the Connecta Angola Commercial project, highlighting achievements recorded so far and expressing its intention to scale the initiative to the regional level. Tanzania and Botswana indicated interest in assessing the feasibility of implementing the project within their respective countries, as well as participating in ANGOTIC 2026 and forming strategic partnerships under space-related programs.
A key item on the agenda was the coordination of eight orbital positions submitted by SADC under Resolution 170 (Rev. World Radiocommunication Conference-23), in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union. This process is regarded as essential for securing orbital and spectrum rights for the region.
The forum also approved the Terms of Reference developed by the Project Steering Committee, paving the way for the formal establishment of the SADC Regional Satellite Program.
GGPEN’s participation reinforces its strategic role in shaping the region’s space architecture and strengthens Angola’s position in advancing the implementation of SADC’s first shared satellite network.
