According to the 2024 African Satellite Manufacturing and Launch Market Report, released by Space in Africa, investment in satellite manufacturing by African governments is projected to reach an impressive $2.6bn between September 2024 and 2030. This is a significant increase from the $1.9bn invested between 2018 and August 2024. By 2030, 72 satellites are expected to be launched by 20 African countries, with six of these countries undertaking their first-ever satellite missions. Notably, contractors for approximately 52% of future satellites, valued at $866.6m, have yet to be determined, showcasing ample opportunities for the satellite manufacturing sector.
Growing Demand for Satellite Technology in Africa
The report highlights the increasing demand for satellite technology across Africa, driven by its recognition as a crucial tool for socio-economic development. African governments prioritise satellite technology to address national security, environmental monitoring, disaster management, and infrastructure development. Africa’s space budget has doubled between 2018 and 2024, thanks to funding from the African Space Agency and international partnerships.
The growing commercial demand for satellite broadband, broadcasting, and Earth Observation (EO) services is fueling this expansion. The need for enhanced connectivity and high-resolution imagery is creating new opportunities in local manufacturing initiatives, reducing reliance on foreign technology. Furthermore, educational and research programs are pivotal in fostering innovation and building domestic capacity. At the same time, international collaborations and investments continue to bolster Africa’s satellite capabilities.
Communication and Earth Observation Satellites Lead the Market
Africa’s satellite manufacturing sector is driven by communication and Earth Observation (EO) satellites, critical to enhancing the continent’s technological infrastructure. The report highlights that government projects are a significant driver of this sector, with 77% of the satellites launched between 2018 and August 2024 being government-funded.
The increasing focus on communication and EO satellites reflects the continent’s strategic objective of building its technological capabilities to address national and continental challenges such as data collection, climate monitoring, and broadband connectivity.
Challenges and Opportunities in Satellite Launching
Despite significant progress in satellite manufacturing, the absence of operational launch sites in Africa remains challenging. Feasibility studies are underway for potential launch sites in Kenya, Djibouti, and Somalia, signalling future growth in the sector. Between 2018 and August 2024, 30 satellites were launched from global locations such as the USA, China, France, Japan, and Russia.
Once operational launch sites are developed, future African satellite launches will offer more opportunities for domestic growth in the space sector. University programs in countries like Algeria, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa are aiding in developing local expertise in rocket development, pointing to a future where Africa could have indigenous launch capabilities.
The Future of African Satellite Manufacturing
The 2024 African Satellite Manufacturing and Launch Market Report demonstrates that the African continent is on an upward trajectory regarding space technology. Investment in satellite technology is not only increasing but also contributing to broader socio-economic development goals, such as improved communication infrastructure and enhanced data collection for climate and environmental monitoring.
With 72 satellites expected to be launched by 2030 and a rapidly growing investment in satellite technology, Africa’s space industry is positioning itself as a critical player in the global space economy.
As Africa strengthens its technological infrastructure and continues to build local expertise through international partnerships and educational programs, the continent is poised for transformational growth in satellite manufacturing and launching capabilities.
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