May 2nd, 2025 — ASTRO GATE Inc. (Head Office: Tokyo), AfriOrbit Ltd. (Head Office: Nairobi), and Hayes Group International (Head Office: Washington, D.C.) have signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the shared goal of jointly promoting the development of a commercial spaceport in Kenya.
This MoU aims to support the advancement of space-related infrastructure and the broader space industry across Africa. By leveraging their respective expertise and resources, the three companies will strengthen collaboration toward the realization of a spaceport initiative in Kenya.
Moving forward, the parties intend to conduct joint discussions and studies focused on the following areas:
- Identification and evaluation of potential spaceport sites within Kenya
- Engagement and coordination with relevant ministries, government bodies, and regulatory authorities
- Feasibility studies from technical, economic, and environmental perspectives
- Exploration of partnership opportunities with launch service providers and satellite operators
Comment from Dr. Daisuke Ode, President of ASTRO GATE Inc.:
“We are truly honored to take the first step toward a spaceport project in Kenya through this collaboration with AfriOrbit and Hayes Group International. Kenya holds tremendous potential to serve as a strategic hub for Africa’s space industry, thanks to its geographical advantages. Through this partnership, we aim to contribute to sustainable and forward-looking growth in the region.”
Comment from Mr. Yuki Harada, CEO of ASTRO GATE Inc.
“This MoU represents a meaningful step toward bridging Africa, Asia, and the global space sector through collaborative development. At ASTRO GATE, we are committed not only to building infrastructure, but also to fostering local expertise and talent in a sustainable, inclusive way. Through this partnership, we hope to co-create a space industry with communities in Kenya and beyond—an industry that grows with and for the region. We look forward to contributing to Africa’s future and to the long-term evolution of the global space economy.”
Comment from Mr. Meshack Kinyua, CEO of AfriOrbit Ltd.:
The idea of an Equatorial spaceport has been gathering dust for years. We are making a bold step to realize the dream. The Kenyan Equatorial Spaceport brings relief to the space community, many that have been waiting to deploy their spacecrafts and satellites, but are hindered by the lack of enough launch windows and cadence. With the Kenyan Equatorial Spaceport, we create the nexus between science and safari. It is where the science community, the indegenous communities and nature will co-create and co-exist in a true ecosystem. Everyone will have a sense of identity every time a rocket takes off from the spaceport.
Comment from Ms. Selina Hayes, CEO of Hayes International Group:
“From workforce development to manufacturing and, ultimately, to launch, we are laying the groundwork for an extraordinary journey that blends cultural heritage with cutting-edge technology and the development of the next generation of Space engineers. The Kenyan Equatorial Safari Spaceport represents more than just the launch of rockets; it embodies the fusion of a local ecosystems with the vastness of space exploration. We are committed to enabling Access to Space for All, ensuring that every Kenyan, every African, can look up to the stars and know that they too can reach them.”
This MoU does not constitute a legally binding agreement but instead defines a foundational framework for future cooperation. The parties will continue discussions with the aim of reaching a formal agreement based on more detailed considerations.
Company Profiles
■ ASTRO GATE Inc. (Head Office: Tokyo)
A space infrastructure company providing end-to-end spaceport solutions, from planning to operations. Through comprehensive services offered to public and private sector clients both in Japan and internationally, ASTRO GATE contributes to the advancement of the global space industry.
■ AfriOrbit Ltd. (Head Office: Nairobi)
A technology company dedicated to promoting the space industry in Africa, engaged in research and development of space technologies, implementation of practical applications, and educational and awareness initiatives across the continent.
■ Hayes Group International (Head Office: Washington, D.C.)
An international consulting firm with a broad portfolio in aerospace, defense, infrastructure, and government affairs. The company provides strategic planning, policy advisory, and project management services to clients around the world.
