President Paul Kagame Calls for Full African Participation in the Space Economy at Paris International Space Summit
Paris, September 10–11, 2026 — Rwandan President Paul Kagame urged greater African involvement in the rapidly growing space sector during the inaugural International Space Summit, held at the Grand Palais on September 9–10. Co-hosted by France and Germany at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron, the two-day event brought together nearly 120 foreign delegations and around 2,000 participants, including heads of state and government, space agency officials, scientists, astronauts, private-sector representatives, and international organizations.
The summit focused on key themes including the space economy, security and sustainability in orbit, rules and governance, and scientific exploration from low-Earth orbit to the Moon and beyond. It aimed to foster dialogue and produce political declarations and commercial announcements rather than a binding treaty.
In his remarks, Kagame thanked Macron for convening the gathering and highlighted the transformative potential of space for Africa. “The space economy is evolving rapidly, driven by lower costs, new technologies, and greater private-sector engagement. Africa intends to be a full participant in this growth, not only as a user of space capabilities, but also as a contributor to science, research, and global decision-making,” he said.
He emphasized the opportunities for a continent with a young and increasingly connected population: “With the right support, our talent pool can develop the relevant expertise, build businesses, and create real value for Africa.”
Kagame outlined Rwanda’s own efforts, noting the establishment of the Rwanda Space Agency in 2020 and a national space policy designed to foster investment and innovation. The country is applying space technologies and artificial intelligence to strengthen agriculture, infrastructure, disaster management, and other critical areas. Rwanda also hosts satellite ground infrastructure that serves global operators, contributing to regional capabilities.
He pointed to coordinated African action, including support for the African Telecommunications Union’s efforts to regain orbital slots, as an example of protecting continental interests amid intensifying competition for spectrum and orbital resources. Kagame stressed the need for clear international rules that recognize both civilian and security applications of space technologies, ensure developing countries have a meaningful voice, and promote technology transfer. He noted that export restrictions continue to limit access to knowledge and modern technologies, while welcoming practical partnerships such as those involving companies like E-Space that collaborate with African nations on satellite solutions.
“Ultimately, we should avoid reproducing in space the inequalities that exist in other domains,” Kagame stated. “Rwanda stands ready to work with France, Europe, and other partners to deepen space cooperation and deliver for all.”
On the sidelines, Kagame met with UNESCO Director-General Khaled El-Enany to discuss Rwanda’s partnerships in education, science and technology, cultural heritage, and memory preservation. He also held talks with Republic of Congo President Denis Sassou Nguesso, reaffirming bilateral relations and the importance of African-led solutions to continental challenges.
The summit underscored Africa’s growing strategic interest in space applications spanning defense, agriculture, telecommunications, and environmental monitoring, with multiple African leaders and delegations participating to ensure the continent is not left behind in the emerging space economy.
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