The 75th Ordinary Meeting of the Board of Directors of the Regional African Satellite Communications Organisation (RASCOM), recently held in Praia, Cape Verde, reaffirmed the organisation’s mission to strengthen collaboration among African satellite communications operators. RASCOM continues championing regional cooperation to bolster Africa’s satellite infrastructure, a critical step towards self-reliance in the fast-evolving digital landscape.
Promoting Unity and Collaboration
The meeting underscored the need for unity among African satellite operators to consolidate efforts and align national satellite agencies. RASCOM emphasised prioritising African satellites for national projects and reducing reliance on foreign operators. In addition, RASCOM hopes to maintain Africa’s competitiveness and safeguard the continent’s satellite space by fostering shared expertise and regional cooperation.
Industry Presentations and Updates
A major highlight of the meeting was a series of presentations from key players in Africa’s satellite industry. The MD of Space in Africa, Temidayo Oniosun, delivered a comprehensive overview of the African satellite communications landscape, identifying gaps and areas for growth. In addition, African satellite operators, including Algeria Space Agency (ASAL), NIGCOMSAT, NILESAT, ANGOSAT, and RASCOMSTARQAF, shared updates on their achievements and challenges, emphasising the need for deeper partnerships to maximise the impact of Africa’s satellite infrastructure.
Furthermore, the operators expressed a strong interest in collaborating with RASCOM, particularly in leveraging satellite services for critical sectors such as education and agriculture. This highlights the growing recognition of satellite communications’ role in driving socio-economic development.
Establishing Key Committees
In response to the industry’s challenges and to propel RASCOM’s mission, the organisation established several key committees:
- Fundraising Strategy Committee: This committee identifies funding opportunities, including private-sector investment, to support the expansion of RASCOM’s satellite operations across Africa. Its goal is to secure the financial resources needed for long-term sustainability.
- African Satellite Communications Conference Committee: This committee will organise a major continental conference to foster knowledge sharing and collaboration between satellite operators, policymakers, and industry leaders. The conference will be pivotal in addressing industry challenges and driving technological advancements.
- Challenges Facing the Satellite Industry in Africa Committee: Charged with assessing the current state of Africa’s satellite industry, this committee will develop strategies to overcome obstacles and ensure that Africa’s satellite space is effectively utilised. This includes proposing regulatory frameworks that support a competitive market for African operators.
Looking Ahead
RASCOM’s continued push for regional collaboration and forming these strategic committees position the organisation to strengthen Africa’s satellite communications sector. With a commitment to innovation and partnerships, RASCOM is leading efforts to create a sustainable and self-sufficient satellite ecosystem. The invitation for private-sector investment highlights an exciting opportunity for businesses to engage in the expansion of Africa’s satellite industry, contributing to the continent’s growing communication needs.
Source: https://spaceinafrica.com/2024/09/27/excerpts-from-rascom-75th-board-of-directors-meeting-in-cabo-verde/
