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AfSA and MEDEF International sign deal to boost Africa’s space sector

The partnership crowns more than two years of dialogue and collaboration, building mutual trust and a shared vision for advancing the space sector

The African Union Space Agency (AfSA) and MEDEF International have signed a three-year partnership agreement, establishing the first-ever collaboration between the African Union and a European employers’ association. The deal was formalised in Paris by Dr Tidiane Ouattara, President of AfSA, and Denis Mercier, Co-President of MEDEF International’s NewSpace Task Force.

This partnership, which follows more than two years of discussions and collaborative work, is designed to accelerate the growth of Africa’s space sector through innovation, expertise exchange and skills transfer. Central to the agreement are initiatives in space economic diplomacy, the joint organisation of space-focused economic forums, and efforts to tackle financial, legal, and regulatory challenges within the industry.

The accord underscores the commitment of French businesses—from emerging startups to established corporations—to engage with Africa’s expanding space economy. Both AfSA and MEDEF International highlighted the significance of the collaboration in unlocking the continent’s vast potential in space exploration and technology development, while strengthening global cooperation in the sector.