Delivering a keynote address at the NewSpace Africa Conference 2026 in Libreville, Tidiane Ouattara said Africa must seize the moment or risk falling behind in a rapidly evolving global industry.
“We are no longer in an economy of prestige, we are in an economy of results,” Ouattara told delegates, emphasizing the need for tangible economic impact from the continent’s growing space ambitions.
The conference, held under the theme “Inclusive Growth: Expanding Space Benefits to all Africans,” has brought together ministers, policymakers and private sector leaders to explore how space technologies can drive development across the continent.
Ouattara said Africa must transition from being a consumer of space technologies to becoming a competitive global actor, noting that space is now central to economic sovereignty and geopolitical influence.
“Africa is no longer merely observing global transformation. It is shaping it,” he said.
He highlighted the commercialization of the sector—often referred to as “NewSpace”—as a major opportunity for African countries, driven by private investment, innovation and falling technology costs.
“Space is a business,” Ouattara said, calling for increased investment in education, research and youth training to build a skilled workforce capable of sustaining the industry.
He also outlined the practical benefits of space technologies, including Earth observation systems for managing natural resources and responding to climate change, satellite communications to expand connectivity in underserved areas and navigation systems to improve transport and security.
Ouattara described Libreville as an emerging regional hub for space science, citing the role of the Agence Gabonaise d’Etudes et d’Observations Spatiales in advancing coordination and innovation.
He also referenced the GMES and Africa Program, whose early forum in Libreville helped shape the continent’s current trajectory in space development.
While stressing African leadership, Ouattara called for stronger international collaboration based on co-design and co-investment rather than traditional aid models.
“The model is no longer of assistance. It is co-design, co-creation, and co-investment,” he said.
Looking ahead, he pointed to initiatives such as the upcoming Africa Space Expo 2026, aimed at connecting governments, investors and industry players to drive concrete projects and partnerships.
Ouattara warned that Africa faces a narrowing window to secure its position in the fast-growing global space economy.
“The future of our continent is now being shaped in the skies,” he said, urging decisive action to ensure Africa not only participates but leads in the sector.
Africabrief