The Regional Space Law Technical Advisory Mission for the African Region officially kicked off today at the Luigi Broglio Malindi Space Centre (LBMSC) Malindi, Kenya. Running from 10 to 13 November 2026, the 4-day mission is organized by the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) in collaboration with the Italian Space Agency (ASI) and the Kenya Space Agency (KSA).
The event brings together international experts and representatives from African space institutions across 16 nations to strengthen regional capacity in space law and policy.
The mission was officially opened by Dr. Patrick Mariru CBS, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Defence.
In his remarks, the PS highlighted the importance of robust legal frameworks in safeguarding national space assets and promoting the peaceful and sustainable use of outer space.
“A robust legal framework is also a key pillar of national security. It provides safeguards for our space assets, helps prevent harmful interference, strengthens confidence and cooperation among States, and contributes to ensuring that outer space remains a domain for peaceful use, in accordance with international law and principles for long-term sustainability,” he stated.
During the opening session, Ambassador Vincenzo del Monaco of Italy to Kenya and Major General Hillary Kipkosgey, Director General of the KSA, emphasized the value of regional cooperation in shaping Africa’s space governance. They noted that collaboration among African nations will help establish a unified approach to regulating space activities.
Through expert-led presentations, interactive discussions and practical table-top exercises, participants will explore approaches to developing and strengthening national space policies, legal frameworks and institutional arrangements tailored to their respective countries.