By PRETORIA – Africa’s future in the rapidly expanding global space economy will hinge on its ability to build robust legal, policy, and regulatory frameworks, rather than relying solely on technological breakthroughs.
This was the central message delivered by Ms. Nomfuneko Majaja, Chief Director of Space Affairs at the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) and Africa Regional Coordinator for the Manfred Lachs Space Law Moot Court Competition. Speaking at the commencement of the competition’s 17th Africa Regional Round at the Casa Toscana Convention Centre in Pretoria, Majaja issued a strong call to action for continental capacity-building in space governance.
Beyond Technology: The Legal Frontier of Space
While infrastructure and technological advancement frequently dominate discussions about outer space, Majaja emphasized that sustainable participation in the global arena requires an equally sophisticated legal architecture.
“As we gather here today, we are reminded that Africa’s future in outer space governance will not only depend on technology and infrastructure, but equally on strong legal minds, sound policy frameworks, international cooperation, and visionary leadership,” Majaja stated.
The event coincided with Africa Day celebrations, underscoring a broader theme of continental unity and cooperation to advance Africa’s collective voice in international space governance. The 2026 edition of the competition is anchored by the theme: “Empowering Africa’s Future in Space Governance for Sustainable Space Activities.”
Cultivating Africa’s Next Generation of Leaders
From an economic and developmental perspective, the annual competition serves as a strategic pipeline for the continent’s human capital. Hosted under the auspices of the International Institute of Space Law (IISL), the event brings together university law students from across the continent to debate complex, hypothetical disputes before a simulated International Court of Justice.
This year’s competition features top legal minds from five key African nations:
- South Africa
- Nigeria
- Kenya
- Uganda
- Zimbabwe
Majaja noted that this initiative is far more than an academic exercise. It represents a long-term economic investment in diplomacy, innovation, and future leadership. The dividends of this investment are already evident: alumni from participating institutions—including the University of Pretoria, the University of Calabar, and Midlands State University—are actively contributing to the space economy and regulatory environments today.
Space Tech as a Catalyst for Socio-Economic Growth
The emphasis on space governance is not purely academic; it has deep socio-economic implications for everyday life on the continent. Well-regulated space technologies are critical components in addressing Africa’s most pressing structural and environmental challenges.
Effective space policy and governance directly impact several critical sectors:
| Sector | Practical Application of Space Technology |
| Agriculture & Food Security | Crop monitoring, soil analysis, and yield forecasting. |
| Climate & Environment | Disaster management, water security tracking, and environmental sustainability. |
| Infrastructure | Advanced communications, satellite navigation, and industrialization. |
Strategic Partnerships and Future Policy
To capitalize on these opportunities, the dtic is working in tandem with crucial space and diplomatic entities. The regional round is hosted in partnership with the South African National Space Agency (SANSA) and various industry stakeholders.
Looking forward, the dtic reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the peaceful and responsible use of outer space, fostering inclusive industrial development, and enhancing Africa’s presence in international governance processes.
The momentum generated by the moot court competition will carry directly into policy circles later this week. Participating students are scheduled to attend the upcoming African Space Policy and Law Conference, hosted by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) from May 28–29, 2026. The conference will bring together policymakers, academics, regulators, and industry captains to deliberate on emerging trends in international space governance and sustainable industrial development —a crucial step toward ensuring Africa does not just participate in the global space economy, but actively helps shape its rules.
