Angola has taken a giant step toward positioning itself as a space power in the region by signing a $231 million financing deal with France for the construction of ANGEO-1.
Airbus Defence and Space in France will construct ANGEO-1, the first Angolan Earth observation satellite.
The development is a culmination of French President Emmanuel Macron’s commitment to supporting Angola’s space ambitions during his 2023 visit to the African country.
According to Space In Africa, in the agreement, Angola secured dual financing with Société Générale bank to fund the satellite project.
The funding agreement consists of two distinct loans: one for EUR 35.27 million and another for EUR 189.99 million.
The funds will support all aspects of the satellite initiative, encompassing its construction, launch operations, and orbital placement
“When the satellite system is launched and becomes operational, ANGEO-1 will enhance Angola’s space capabilities and play a pivotal role in supporting socio-economic development across the continent. It will utilise Earth Observation technology to address critical challenges, including agricultural productivity, environmental monitoring, and disaster management when in orbit,” said Space in Africa.
In addition, the two parties said the advanced satellite will lead to better preparations for natural disasters and reduced loss of assets.
“It will also provide a better understanding of the origins and impacts of climate change on the economy, such as drought monitoring, rising sea levels and water resources,” said manufacturer, Airbus Defence and Space.
Angola is confident that the satellite will further enhance the development of the country in many different sectors and improve the lives of citizens.
A key component of the multi-million dollar project is knowledge transfer and capacity building. It will equip the next generation of Angolan space specialists with the skills to lead the country’s growing space industry.
Jean-Marc Nasr, head of space systems at Airbus said: “Space supports life on Earth. This is why I was honoured to join Presidents João Lourenço and Emmanuel Macron in supporting Angola’s far-sighted space ambitions. As Angola’s strategic partner for space, Airbus will deliver a latest-generation Earth observation satellite to support social and economic development including a range of strategic activities such as urban planning and management of precious mineral resources.”
