  In this paper, we apply the ITU-R P.618-8 model with data from the ITU-R
P.837-7, Tropical Rain Measuring Mission (TRMM) and Global Precipitation
Mission (GPM) satellite to determine the level of attenuation and available
link margin for a LEO system such as Telesat. The specific and predicted
attenuation for chosen six candidate ground stations (Abuja, Hartbeesthoek,
Cairo, Longonot, Port Louis and Praia) is computed and results presented for
0.001%-1% unavailability time in a year. Setting a link margin of 0.36dB, the
available link margin and the best candidate ground station for a LEO system
such as Telesat is determined. The approach used can be implemented for other
potential ground stations and LEO communication systems over Africa.
