Somalia Backs Africa’s Space Ambitions at AfSA Launch, Eyes Own Spaceport

GOOBJOOG NEWS|CAIRO: Somalia reaffirmed its commitment to Africa’s growing space ambitions during the inauguration of the African Space Agency (AfSA) in Egypt this week, signaling its intention to play a strategic role in the continent’s pursuit of space sovereignty and innovation.

In a message delivered during the high-level ceremony, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud congratulated African leaders and institutions for what he described as a “milestone achievement” that unites Africa’s aspirations for leadership in space technology.
He praised Egypt for hosting AfSA’s permanent headquarters and commended Dr. Tidiane Ouattara and the African Space Council for their vision.

President Mohamud also acknowledged the efforts of Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre and Minister of Communication and Technology Mohamed Adam Moalim Ali for advancing Somalia’s national space program. Somalia’s official delegation, led by Mohamed Abubakar Ismail, Director of Space and Satellite at the Ministry of Communication and Technology, actively participated in both the agency’s inauguration and the NewSpace Africa Conference.

During two high-level panels, Ismail outlined Somalia’s progress in developing its space infrastructure, drafting a national space policy, and investing in training for Somali engineers and scientists. He emphasized the inclusion of academic institutions in space research as a critical pillar of Somalia’s strategy.

Speaking on a panel exploring the future of spaceports in Africa, Ismail also signaled Somalia’s interest in hosting such infrastructure. He argued that African-based launch facilities would reduce costs, cut reliance on foreign launch sites, and position Africa as a competitive player in the global space economy.
Somalia’s engagement in AfSA’s launch underscores a broader continental push for technological autonomy and sustainable development, with space infrastructure seen as a catalyst for innovation, climate monitoring, and security.

The country pledged continued participation in future editions of NewSpace Africa, signaling long-term commitment to continental collaboration in space science and technology.