Yahsat signs MoU with Government of South Africa to enhance satcom

Yahsat has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies of the Republic of South Africa to bolster cooperation across a wide range of satellite communication fields.

The MoU was signed in Johannesburg by Sulaiman Al Ali, Yahsat’s Chief Commercial Officer, and Nonkqubela Jordan-Dyani, Director General of South Africa’s Ministry of Communications and Digital Technologies.

The agreement focuses on a broad range of areas for collaboration including partnering on satellite and ICT-related services, satellite broadband connectivity, Internet of Things, geospatial applications, High-Altitude Pseudo Satellites (HAPS), and Earth Observation Satellites. It also creates a framework for exploring the potential of building ground stations in South Africa to operate satellites, collaboration on manufacturing of devices and antennae, skills exchange and investment.

The MoU signing followed a successful high-profile visit by a delegation from the Government of South Africa in early May led by His Excellency Deputy President Paul Mashatile. It included senior government ministers, heads of several departments, and Brainwave Projects SA, the Public Sector service partner in South Africa and resulted in positive talks between the two parties on developing a path for greater cooperation.

Ali Al Hashemi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Yahsat, said: “We are delighted to complete the MoU as a testament to the excellent relationship our two countries share. It is an exciting step forward in Yahsat’s relationship with South Africa and the wider continent. The mutually beneficial agreement will enable Yahsat to expand its presence in South Africa, work even closer with our partners to develop infrastructure and skills, and enhance communications capabilities in the country.”

Mondli Gungubele, South Africa’s Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, added: “Satellite communications are playing an increasingly important role in the development of Africa. At present technology is connecting isolated and underprivileged communities with essential services such as e-learning, telemedicine, e-commerce, and more. The MoU represents the next phase of development as countries on the continent begin to establish their space tech sectors.