The NewSpace Africa Conference in Luanda served as a crucial platform for stakeholders from the United States and Africa to explore the transformative potential of space collaboration. Building on previous dialogues, the session emphasized partnerships that drive economic growth, foster innovation, and contribute to sustainable development.
High-level participation sets ambitious tone
The conference boasted distinguished speakers, including H.E Professor Mohammed Belhocine Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation (ESTI) of the African Union; Don Graves, Deputy Secretary of Commerce, U.S. Department of Commerce and Gabriel Swiney Director, Policy, Advocacy, and International Division, US Office of Space Commerce.
Swiney underscored America’s commitment to supporting African space programs and fostering robust participation from the continent.
Deputy Secretary Don Graves highlighted the vital role of space commerce in fueling economic growth across Africa. He emphasized leveraging space-based tools and ongoing infrastructure projects like the Lobito Corridor, funded by the PGII and EU.
Professor Belhocine stressed the importance of aligning policies and regulations with African priorities. He championed capacity building, particularly among youth, to fuel inclusive innovation across the continent.
Panel discussion unveils strategies for cooperation
Following these keynote addresses, a panel discussion, moderated by Rose Croshier International Relations Specialist, Office of Space Commerce, US Department of Commerce, provided deeper insights into US space endeavors across four key dimensions: Diplomacy, Commercial Cooperation and Trade, Space Development, and US Space Security. Panelists delineated initiatives and objectives aimed at bolstering the African space ecosystem from diverse perspectives.
Rosalie Daniels, of Office of Space Affairs (OES/SA), U.S. Department of State, highlighted US commitments to fortifying international partnerships and enhancing space literacy and awareness in Africa. Charity Weeden, Associate Administrator, Office of Technology, Policy, and Strategy (OTPS), NASA, underscored the significance of youth involvement in space exploration and the formulation of regulations to ensure peaceful space activities.
Gabriel Swiney delved into NOAA’s endeavors to bolster climate change adaptation and resilience frameworks in Africa, emphasizing the department’s dedication to broadening access to early warning systems.
Lt. Col. Matthew Collins, Liaison to U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM), underscored the gravity of space security responsibilities and the department’s endeavors to uphold global security standards while providing advanced services to partners.
Dr. Tidiane Ouattara, African Union Commission Space Science Expert, GMES & Africa Program Coordinator, emphasized the imperative of crafting policies and regulatory frameworks that align with the priorities of African governments and highlighted the significance of capacity building and youth engagement.
Dr. Danielle Wood Associate Professor, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and Heather McLeod, Senior Commercial Officer – U.S. Embassy Luanda elucidated collaborative projects tackling environmental challenges in Angola, emphasizing the importance of local expertise and data-driven policymaking.
Building on previous engagements like the US-Africa Commercial Space Stakeholders Meeting in October 2023 and the US-Africa Space Forum in December 2022, this session underscored the transformative potential of space endeavors, transcending geographical and financial barriers.
The session concluded with a reiteration of the commitment to collaborative endeavors between Africa and the USA, aimed at leveraging space activities for sustainable development and mutual benefit.
