Algeria and Nigeria Double Down on Satellites to Bolster Tech Autonomy
Algeria has successfully placed its Alsat-3B satellite into orbit, marking a major step in its National Space Programme, while Nigeria moves forward with plans to acquire two new telecommunications satellites to modernize its digital infrastructure. According to Developing Telecoms, these developments highlight a growing focus across Africa on leveraging satellite technologies for strategic and economic gains.
Algeria Expands its Satellite Constellation
On 31 January, Algeria launched the Alsat-3B satellite from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in China, just two weeks after placing its companion, Alsat-3A, into orbit. The satellites, developed through collaboration between the Algerian Space Agency (ASAL) and China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, add to Algeria’s growing constellation, which already includes Alsat-1B, 1N, 2A, 2B, and 3A.
Alsat-3B enhances Algeria’s national satellite capabilities by delivering high-resolution imagery for critical applications such as digital mapping, resource management, disaster prevention, and environmental monitoring. Beyond technical considerations, the move also underscores Algeria’s push for greater autonomy in geospatial intelligence by reducing reliance on foreign data providers.
The Alsat programme is integral to Algeria’s broader National Space Programme, which seeks to deepen local expertise in satellite technology, support regional cooperation on geospatial projects, and drive strategic uses such as food security and territorial planning.
Nigeria’s Telecommunications Upgrade
Meanwhile, Nigeria is accelerating plans to replace its aging NigComSat-1R satellite with two new telecommunications satellites. NigComSat-1R, operational since December 2011, was initially set to conclude its service life in 2026 but has now been extended until 2028. The new satellites are expected to significantly enhance Nigeria’s digital connectivity and infrastructure.
For Nigeria, the investment in telecommunications satellites aligns with its ambition to expand broadband penetration, close digital divides, and support economic growth through modernized digital services. While further details about the satellite procurement process remain undisclosed, this signals a clear commitment to upgrading its satcom capabilities.
Africa’s Growing Satellite Ambitions
Both Algeria’s and Nigeria’s satellite initiatives underscore a broader trend across Africa, where emerging economies are increasingly embracing satellite technology to serve national and regional priorities. For Algeria, enhancing self-reliance in geospatial intelligence addresses both sovereignty and strategic challenges, including climate change and resource management.
In contrast, Nigeria’s investment highlights the critical role satcoms play in digital transformation, especially in bridging connectivity gaps across underserved regions. Industry analysts suggest that these moves also position both nations to become regional satcoms leaders, capable of offering expertise and services across Africa.
Implications for the Telecom Sector
The renewed focus on satellites by these African leaders reflects a recognition of their dual value: as tools for economic and strategic empowerment. For the global satellite industry, this uptick in African activity represents an opportunity for partnerships, contract awards, and new markets in an area where connectivity needs remain underserved.
As Algeria deepens ties with China to enhance its space infrastructure and Nigeria seeks to modernize its connectivity backbone, the question remains: how will this impact Africa’s position in the global satellite market? Market watchers will closely follow whether this will spur wider investment in the sector across the continent.
