Space Network launches African Hub to drive space growth
Space Network, one of the fastest-growing global platforms for space professionals and companies, has launched Space Network | Africa, an initiative aimed at accelerating Africa's role in the global space industry. The announcement was made during the Space Symposium held in Colorado Springs from April 710.
With Africas youthful, tech-savvy populationover 60% of whom are under 25Space Network | Africa seeks to harness the continents untapped potential in talent, innovation and natural resources. The initiative will support economic development, technological advancement and education, positioning Africa as a competitive force in the global space economy.
Ross Hamilton, Chief Operating Officer of Space Network, said: 'Launching Space Network | Africa will be transformative for the continent. By uniting talent and resources from across the continent, we aim to cultivate a vibrant, sustainable, and impactful space economy. Africa is ready to become a global leader in space-driven initiatives from agriculture and telecommunications to climate monitoring and equatorial launch.'
The initiative plans to establish dynamic marketplaces that connect African universities, startups, research institutions, investors and space agencies with global partners. Key components include a Pan-African Space Incubator, regional innovation clusters and strategic collaborations with international organisations. Space Network | Africa also aims to strengthen ties between the Global South and North, bridging innovation and investment.
Thabo Kupa, the newly appointed Hub Manager of Space Network | Africa, stated: 'Our ambition is bold, but our approach is focused. By establishing Space Network | Africa, fostering regional clusters, collaborating on policy and regulatory frameworks, and attracting global investment, were dedicated to accelerating Africas commercial space capabilities.'
In addition, Space Network | Africas educational initiatives will span primary education to professional development, aiming to create a continuous pipeline of talent. Initial programmes include online education modules developed in strategic partnership with Nova Space alongside in-person pilot projects in Kenyan, Ghanaian and South African schools, and embrace regional, cultural and language needs to create an inclusive platform across Africa.
Allan Okoth, Educational Programmes Lead, remarked: 'Our education initiatives aim to inspire Africans of all ages, from school children to aspiring space professionals. By connecting global expertise with local context, we're equipping Africas youth for dynamic careers in the global space economy.'
Joseph Horvath, Co-founder and CEO of Nova Space Inc, said: 'Nova Space is thrilled to partner with Space Network | Africa to deliver high-quality space training and support the growth of Africas emerging space workforce. We believe that this collaboration represents a powerful step toward building a truly global space community. By working together, we can empower individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to shape the future of space.'
Space Network | Africas innovation-focused programmes aim to bridge education and industry, providing practical experience through satellite builds, innovation boot camps, and entrepreneurship competitions. Notable projects include collaborations with cube sat manufacturers for a multi-country satellite design programme, a regional Space Grant Consortium, and the upcoming 'Space for Africa Challenge,' leading to pitches at the inaugural Pan-African Space Summit in 2026.
Kwaku Sumah, Innovation Lead and CEO of Spacehubs Africa, noted: 'Our collaboration with Space Network | Africa will rapidly scale innovative opportunities continent-wide, driving commercial viability and inspiring the next generation of African entrepreneurs in the space industry.'
The Space Network | Africa Secretariat, co-chaired by Ross Hamilton and Thabo Kupa, alongside Allan Okoth (Education), Kwaku Sumah (Innovation) and Joshua Kisiangani will steer strategic direction and program delivery. Founding Space Network | Africa Ambassadors include former Ambassador of Kenya to The Hague, Margaret W N Shava, and distinguished venture capitalist, Eric Osiakwan.
Andy Campbell, CEO & Founder of Space Network, expressed his enthusiasm for this landmark launch: 'I am absolutely delighted to announce the creation of Space Network | Africa. This marks the first of many Space Network hubs planned around the globe as we strive to connect the sector, fostering collaboration and innovation for positive and impactful outcomes worldwide.'
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