NewSpace Africa 2025 Conference kicks off in Cairo - Foreign Affairs
The NewSpace Africa 2025 Conference officially commenced in Cairo on Monday at the Egyptian Space City, marking a historic first for Egypt and a pivotal moment for the African space sector.
Hosted by the Egyptian Space Agency (ESA) under its patronage, the four-day event has brought together high-level representatives from African space agencies, global aerospace institutions, government bodies, academic circles, and private-sector innovators.
ESA CEO Sherif Sedky inaugurated the opening session. He expressed Egypt's pride in hosting the continent's foremost space conference.
'Egypt stands at the forefront of Africa's space renaissance,' he said.
'By convening this diverse and dynamic group of space leaders, we are planting the seeds for greater regional integration, technological advancement, and sustainable development across the continent.'
Sedky emphasised Egypt's longstanding commitment to strengthening Africa's space ecosystem through satellite development, knowledge exchange, and multilateral partnerships.
His remarks were followed by keynote addresses from Tidiane Ouattara, Head of the African Union's Space Programme, and other senior dignitaries.
They stressed the importance of space science in addressing Africa's critical challenges, ranging from climate resilience to food security and education.
The opening day also witnessed the historic inauguration of the Permanent Headquarters of the African Space Agency, now officially hosted at the Egyptian Space City.
The move represents a bold step forward in institutionalising Africa's continental space vision and creating a unified platform for strategic coordination.
Following the inaugural session, the conference featured high-level panels on regional satellite initiatives, African-led innovation, and the socioeconomic benefits of space technologies.
Participants explored public-private partnerships and showcased leading satellite and aerospace projects in an accompanying exhibition.
On Tuesday, the event's second day, the momentum continued with sessions focused on strengthening international ties and accelerating innovation in the African space economy.
Key sessions included detailed discussions on the status of space programs in various African countries, as well as presentations from major international space organisations.
Highlights included keynote addresses by Airbus, the European Space Agency (ESA), and the French National Centre for Space Studies (CNES), which presented cutting-edge advancements in satellite technology, data applications, and opportunities for cooperation with African institutions.
A major feature of Day Two was the Arab Group Meeting, where representatives from Arab space agencies convened to explore regional collaboration and build bridges between Africa and the Arab world in the field of space science.
The meeting affirmed the need for stronger synergies between Arab and African stakeholders, especially in joint missions, technology transfer, and policy coordination.
The day concluded with a cultural visit to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation, offering participants a unique opportunity to engage with Egypt's ancient heritage while fostering informal dialogue and mutual understanding among space leaders.
Looking Ahead
The New Space Africa 2025 Conference continues to gain traction as a strategic platform for redefining Africa's role in the global space industry.
With its strong emphasis on unity, innovation, and inclusive growth, the event reflects a shared commitment to leveraging space technologies as a pillar of Africa's development and digital transformation.
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