Johannesburg, South Africa — November 11, 2025: Thuraya, the satellite communications arm of Space42, has officially launched its Thuraya-4 mobile communications satellite in South Africa, marking a major milestone in the company’s African expansion and the advancement of national digital inclusion goals under South Africa’s Vision 2030.
The rollout establishes Thuraya’s complete operational portfolio in South Africa, expanding national coverage and strengthening critical communications infrastructure across key industries. Thuraya-4 is designed to enhance connectivity for energy, mining, maritime, civil government, and humanitarian operations, ensuring reliable communication even in remote or high-risk areas.
“Thuraya-4 represents a new kind of connectivity — one built for mission-critical operations where reach, security, and resilience are essential,” the company stated.
The next-generation satellite features an advanced L-band payload and software-defined architecture that dynamically allocates bandwidth and integrates seamlessly with terrestrial networks. This ensures uninterrupted service and high mobility — even in adverse conditions — supporting both public and private sector resilience.
The launch was carried out in close collaboration with South African regulators and industry partners, aligning with national connectivity and space development priorities.
Part of Space42’s Pan-African Connectivity Drive
Thuraya’s South African debut forms part of Space42’s broader mission to expand digital access and geospatial infrastructure across Africa.
- In Zimbabwe, the company has connected over 1,000 schools and 500 clinics, with plans to reach 2,500 more schools serving 1.9 million students.
- In Rwanda, subsidiary Mira Aerospace achieved the world’s first 5G video call from a High-Altitude Platform Station (HAPS).
- In South Africa, YahClick, another Space42 brand, continues to deliver reliable broadband to underserved regions.
- Through the Map Africa Initiative, in partnership with Microsoft and Esri, Space42 is building the continent’s most detailed base map, leveraging satellite imagery and AI to aid infrastructure, resource management, and climate resilience.
With Thuraya-4 now operational, South Africa joins the frontlines of satellite-powered digital transformation, reinforcing the country’s ambition to lead in space-based connectivity and AI-driven innovation across the continent.
