AFRALTI recently organized a landmark Space Governance Webinar titled “Navigating the Legal Cosmos: Unveiling the Future of Space Governance,” which brought together global experts to explore the emerging challenges and opportunities in the evolving landscape of space regulation. The event sparked crucial discussions on the legal frameworks that will govern space activities in an era of rapid technological advancements, including the growing role of satellites and space-based technologies in our daily lives.

The webinar attracted professionals from a wide range of fields, including telecommunications, policy, law, and ICT, all eager to engage in dialogue on the critical need for comprehensive and forward-thinking governance of space activities. As space becomes more accessible and crowded due to advances in technology and the increasing use of satellites for communication and data services, developing coherent and collaborative global governance frameworks is paramount.

Key topics covered during the webinar included:

• International Space Law and treaties governing the peaceful use of outer space.
• Spectrum management and frequency allocation for space-based communication systems.
• The potential role of 5G technology in space communications.
• Legal implications of private-sector involvement in space exploration and satellite launches.
• The need for international collaboration to ensure responsible and sustainable use of space.

Participants discussed how the rapid deployment of satellite constellations, driven by innovations in 5G and other digital technologies, demands urgent attention from governments and regulatory bodies to ensure that space remains a resource for the benefit of all humanity.

AFRALTI, known for its commitment to capacity building and ICT training in Africa, facilitated a rich exchange of ideas, underscoring the importance of equipping policymakers and regulators with the knowledge to address the complexities of space governance.

The event concluded with a call for continuous global collaboration to develop policies that not only keep pace with the technological innovations shaping space but also ensure that these advances are governed by principles of sustainability, inclusivity, and shared responsibility.