RASCOM chief joins Riyadh panel on satellite routes to universal access

Timothy Adi Ashong, Director General of the Regional African Satellite Communications Organisation (RASCOM), took part remotely in the 2026 Global Space Connectivity & Sustainability Events, held 12 to 14 October in Riyadh. The programme was co-organised by Saudi Arabia's Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) and the International Telecommunication Union.

Ashong sat on a high-level panel about the satellite sector's role in universal access, moderated by Isabelle Mauro of the Global Satellite Operators Association. The session covered non-terrestrial networks, the roles of GEO, MEO and LEO operators, direct-to-device services, and the technical, commercial and regulatory barriers to reaching unconnected people.

Ashong called for sustained cooperation among governments, regional institutions and satellite operators to meet Africa's connectivity needs. RASCOM also praised the African Space Agency, led by Dr Tidiane Ouattara, for its work on the continent's space agenda.

Why it matters: Satellite connectivity underpins data transfer for field surveys, Earth observation downlinks and remote operations. African regional bodies shaping NTN, LEO and direct-to-device policy at ITU-linked forums influences spectrum and access conditions for the continent's space and geospatial users.