
04 Nov Republic of Angola
Angola – Gabinete de Gestão Espacial Nacional (GGPEN): The Angolan National Space Programme Management Office (GGPEN) was established in 2013 to lead the country’s ambitious space initiatives, enhance national technological capabilities, and support socio-economic growth. Under the guidance of Angola’s Ministry of Telecommunications, Information Technologies, and Social Communication, GGPEN has been at the forefront of developing Angola’s space infrastructure and advancing its strategic role in Africa’s burgeoning space industry. GGPEN has made significant progress in Angola’s space sector, notably with the development and launch of its communication satellites.
The AngoSat-1 satellite, launched in 2017, marked Angola’s first step into space, though technical issues led to its early demise. However, GGPEN quickly initiated the AngoSat-2 project, successfully launched in October 2022, with full operational capabilities achieved in early 2023. The AngoSat-2 now provides communication services to seven provinces across Angola and is being leveraged for critical initiatives, such as the “Conecta Angola” project launched by Angola Telecom. This project aims to enhance digital connectivity, particularly in remote and underserved regions, bridging the digital divide and improving access to telecommunications, internet services, and digital broadcasting.
Furthermore, AngoSat-2 is pivotal in supporting the National Maritime Coordination and Surveillance Center, significantly bolstering Angola’s maritime security, communication infrastructure, and disaster response capabilities. In addition to satellite deployment, GGPEN has focused on fostering local capacity-building and knowledge transfer through partnerships with international space agencies, including collaborations with Russia. These partnerships have enhanced Angola’s expertise in satellite operations and technology development. GGPEN’s strategic efforts have also extended into space education and outreach programs, engaging young Angolans and encouraging STEM-related careers in space science. Overall, GGPEN’s activities, particularly the operational success of its second AngoSat satellite, underscore its commitment to leveraging space technology to promote Angola’s socio-economic development. Through these advancements, GGPEN continues to play a critical role in expanding satellite services in telecommunications, maritime coordination, agriculture, and natural disaster management while positioning Angola as a leader in Africa’s space sector.
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