Somalia has signed a new agreement with China to expand the use of satellite technology in national development, marking a step forward in its growing interest in space and data systems.
The agreement was signed during the NewSpace Africa Conference 2026 held in Libreville. It brings together Somalia’s Department of Space and Satellite, which operates under the Ministry of Communications and Technology, and the Land Satellite Remote Sensing Application Center.
The deal was formalised by Mohamed Abubakar Ismail and Yu Dequan. It focuses on using satellite images to improve decision-making and support innovation in Somalia.
Officials said the partnership will encourage closer technical cooperation, knowledge sharing, and wider use of satellite tools. These technologies are expected to support areas such as urban planning, environmental monitoring, and infrastructure development.
The move reflects Somalia’s growing involvement in international space activities. The government is looking to use science and technology to support economic growth and long-term development.
Although Somalia’s space sector is still at an early stage, officials believe partnerships like this are important. They say such collaborations will help build local expertise and introduce advanced tools into government systems and public services.
