East African nations are moving to launch a jointly owned regional communication and broadcasting satellite to curb dependence on external systems and ensure digital sovereignty.
The project aims to provide low-cost broadband and secure internet access for government services, says William Gitau, cabinet secretary for the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy in Kenya.
The initiative, known as the Northern Corridor Regional Communication and Broadcasting Satellite Initiative (NCRCBSI), was the focus of a meeting in Nairobi between ICT ministers from Kenya, South Sudan, Uganda and Rwanda.
The states agreed to invest in infrastructure that supports local priorities rather than relying on international connectivity routes.
A comprehensive feasibility study will be the first step to assess the technical, financial and legal requirements of the project, according to Gitau. This study will be supported through shared funding by the four partner states.
The collaboration will strengthen regional cooperation and advance digital infrastructure to enhance service delivery and economic growth, says Gitau. Speaking at the Connected Africa Summit, he noted that the project is essential for resilience during emergencies such as cyberattacks.
The NCRCBSI was initiated in 2023 as a multilateral effort to bridge connectivity gaps in underserved and remote areas. While the East African Community comprises eight nations—including Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia and Tanzania—this specific satellite project is currently driven by the four Northern Corridor members.
By establishing a regional satellite, the partners expect to achieve more affordable connectivity for broadcasting and digital services.
The move follows similar trends across the continent, where regional blocs are seeking to keep data traffic local and reduce the high costs associated with leasing capacity from foreign satellite operators.
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