• 37 companies express interest in satellite-based internet program

• Initiative aims to extend connectivity to remote and underserved areas

• Project builds on earlier push to expand nationwide internet access

Angola plans to scale up the use of its Angosat-2 satellite by bringing in private sector players to expand internet access across the country.

A total of 37 companies have expressed interest in the “Connecta Angola Comercial” project, an initiative led by the government to commercialize satellite-based connectivity. The program relies on the capacity of the national telecommunications satellite, Angosat-2.

The update was provided this week by the Office for the Management of the National Space Program (GGPEN), which is overseeing the project. The agency said participating companies have already begun the onboarding process and encouraged additional operators to join.

As part of the rollout, working sessions have been held with firms including SpeedNet, Netservice, and TechGolden to present business opportunities tied to the use of Angosat-2’s capacity.

“The initiative aims to mobilize the private sector to deliver satellite internet services, bringing connectivity to remote areas and supporting digital inclusion, entrepreneurship, and economic development,” GGPEN said.

Through this effort, the Angolan government is accelerating the commercialization of its satellite infrastructure and positioning space technologies as a lever for development. The focus is on improving both the reach and quality of telecom services, particularly in rural and underserved regions.

The project builds on the earlier “Conecta Angola” program launched in 2023 by state operator Angola Telecom. That initiative provides free internet access in remote areas where mobile network operators are not active, targeting public institutions such as schools, hospitals, and local government offices.

Angola began commercializing Angosat-2 in January 2023. At the time, the country had 11.78 million internet users, representing a penetration rate of 32.6%, according to DataReportal. By the end of December 2025, the number had risen to 17.6 million users, or 44.8% of the population.

Isaac K. Kassouwi