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GSMA Endorses Abuja Declaration to Advance Satellite Spectrum Reform and Launch ATLAS Umoja

On Friday, July 24, 2026, the GSMA (Global System for Mobile Communications Association) formally endorsed the Abuja Declaration on Meaningful Connectivity for Africa, partnering with African ministerial leaders to launch ATLAS Umoja AI. The initiative establishes a collaborative framework to harmonize spectrum policies, promote technology-neutral licensing, and accelerate digital infrastructure across the continent.


Spectrum Reform and Technology-Neutral Frameworks

The declaration addresses long-standing regulatory barriers across African markets by advocating for technology-neutral spectrum licensing and modernized satellite regulatory frameworks. GSMA’s engagement with regional telecommunications authorities focuses on streamlining satellite connectivity access, enabling non-terrestrial network (NTN) operators to complement ground infrastructure.

This regulatory push aligns with expanding satellite broadband and direct-to-device mobile network initiatives designed to reach remote and underserved populations across Sub-Saharan Africa.

Sovereign Infrastructure and ATLAS Umoja AI

Supported by the governments of Benin, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, and Togo, the ATLAS Umoja AI project forms a key pillar of the broader regional strategy. The initiative aims to build sovereign digital capabilities tailored to local languages and operational needs, reducing dependence on external technology stacks:

  • Multilateral Collaboration: Involves Nigeria’s Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy; Togo’s Ministry of Digital Economy and Transformation; Kenya’s Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy; Namibia’s Ministry of Information and Communication Technology; and Benin’s Ministry of Digital Transformation and Innovation.
  • Resource Sharing: Establishes shared datasets, compute access, and technical expertise among African research institutes and industry partners.
  • Policy Integration: Integrates satellite and terrestrial connectivity goals with artificial intelligence infrastructure deployment.

Regulatory Implementation Timeline

Following the Abuja Declaration, participating nations and the GSMA will coordinate with regional telecommunications unions to present updated spectrum allocation proposals. Draft guidelines for technology-neutral licensing and satellite spectrum harmonization are scheduled for review during upcoming regional regulatory forums in late 2026.