Kenya hosts 16-country space law mission at Malindi

Kenya's Defence Principal Secretary, Dr Patrick Mariru, inaugurated a four-day technical advisory mission on regional space law at the Luigi Broglio Space Centre in Malindi, Kilifi County. Legal, policy and regulatory specialists from 16 African countries are taking part, working on national space legislation and responsible use of outer space.

The mission is a joint effort of the Kenya Space Agency, the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and the Italian Space Agency. Its agenda covers national space laws, licensing, liability, spectrum management and sustainable use of outer space.

Dr Mariru said Kenya's draft space policy and draft space bill, shaped by stakeholder consultation and public participation, are in advanced review before Cabinet consideration. He credited a 2023 UNOOSA advisory mission for guiding the country's framework.

Kenya Space Agency Director General Major General Hillary Kipkosgey stressed the need for home-grown space law expertise and regional collaboration. As an example, he pointed to Strathmore University, which topped the African qualifying stages of an international space law moot court contest in both 2025 and 2026 and went on to the global finals. The Italian Ambassador to Kenya and a judge also attended the opening.

Why it matters: Licensing, liability and spectrum rules will shape how African satellite operators, EO data providers and ground-segment businesses can operate. Kenya's pending Space Bill and the regional push for harmonised law signal the regulatory environment practitioners will work within.

Sources: Ministry of Defence, Kenya