BrainSAT and Space42 Expand South Africa’s Digital Connectivity with Satellite Services
Speaking at the event, Adam Issa said the company aims to bridge South Africa's digital divide by delivering satellite connectivity to underserved communities where traditional telecommunications infrastructure remains limited.
South Africa has officially launched BrainSAT Technologies ‘ satellite services and unveiled the Thuraya One satellite smartphone, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to expand digital connectivity and strengthen partnerships in space and telecommunications. The launch, attended by Deputy President Paul Mashatile, brought together government officials, industry leaders and representatives from the United Arab Emirates, underscoring growing cooperation between the two countries in digital infrastructure and space technology.
Speaking at the event, Adam Issa said the company aims to bridge South Africa’s digital divide by delivering satellite connectivity to underserved communities where traditional telecommunications infrastructure remains limited. He described connectivity as a critical enabler of economic development, education, healthcare and entrepreneurship, adding that BrainSAT’s mission is to ensure that no South African is excluded from the digital economy.
Issa highlighted the company’s strategic partnership with Space42, which has provided satellite technology, technical expertise and infrastructure to support the rollout of advanced communications services. He said the collaboration extends beyond connectivity to include technology transfer, skills development, research partnerships, local manufacturing opportunities and innovation initiatives aimed at strengthening South Africa’s digital capabilities.
A key outcome of the partnership is a Memorandum of Understanding between Space42 and South Africa’s Department of Communications and Digital Technologies. According to Issa, the agreement focuses on developing satellite infrastructure, promoting accredited training programmes, advancing joint research and development, supporting local assembly and manufacturing, and fostering an innovation ecosystem that could position South Africa as a regional leader in the digital economy.
BrainSAT said its satellite services are designed to support a broad range of sectors, including healthcare, education, government, defence, security and enterprise communications. The company believes satellite connectivity can accelerate initiatives such as South Africa’s SA Connect programme by providing resilient and affordable broadband access to rural communities, schools, clinics, businesses and government institutions. The technology is also expected to enhance telemedicine, distance learning, disaster response and emergency communications.
The event also featured the unveiling of the Thuraya One satellite smartphone, which combines conventional smartphone functionality with integrated satellite connectivity. The device enables users to make calls, send messages, access data services and trigger emergency SOS functions even outside terrestrial mobile network coverage. BrainSAT said the technology is particularly suited to healthcare workers, emergency responders, mining operations, farmers, border security agencies and other users operating in remote locations where reliable communications are essential.
Issa said the launch reflects a broader vision of leveraging satellite technology to drive inclusive development, improve service delivery and create new economic opportunities across South Africa. He emphasized that the partnership between government, industry and international technology providers demonstrates how collaboration can accelerate digital transformation while ensuring connectivity reaches communities that have traditionally been underserved.
