New Space Africa Conference -Day 4.

Cairo, Egypt – On the final day of the New Space Africa Conference saw Kenya take center stage during a dynamic panel discussion titled "Africa’s Gateway to Space: Exploring Opportunities in Spaceport Development."

Moderated by Samuel Nyangi, the session featured a distinguished panel composed of Brigadier Hillary Kipkosgey, Ag. Director-General of the Kenya Space Agency(KSA); Samuel Nyangi, Space in Africa analyst; Mohamed A. Ismail from Somalia; and Prof. Jean Pitot, an engineer with the Aerospace Systems Research Institute (ASRI).

The experts delved into the strategic advantages of spaceport development in Africa, with a focus on Africa's unique potential.

Situated directly on the equator, Kenya offers optimal conditions for launches, significantly reducing fuel usage and enabling heavier payloads to reach orbit more efficiently.

Beyond technical advantages, the panel emphasized the broader socioeconomic benefits of a spaceport. These include job creation, human capacity development, increased interest in STEM fields, space tourism, local assembly and testing of launch vehicles, and a deep sense of national pride.

Kenya’s blend of geographical advantage, coastal expanse, and political stability positions it as a frontrunner in becoming one of Africa’s first operational spaceport that could redefine the continent’s presence in the global space sector.

Additionally, Kenya is taking bold steps to develop sound policy, legal, and regulatory framework aimed at attracting and protecting both local and international investment. The purpose of these processes is to foster a conducive environment for long-term partnerships in the country's growing space industry.
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