The African Space Agency (AfSA) is gearing up for a new era of space exploration and development across the continent. Dr. Tidiane Ouattara, the African Union Commission’s Space Expert, recently shared crucial updates on AfSA’s progress and vision. The agency, officially inaugurated in January 2023, aims to foster collaboration among African nations and leverage existing space capabilities while avoiding duplication of efforts.
AfSA’s strategy involves working closely with established national space agencies in countries like Algeria, Nigeria, Egypt, and South Africa. These nations will serve as pioneers, extending their expertise and infrastructure to benefit the entire continent. Meanwhile, AfSA will focus on supporting countries without existing space agencies, helping them develop necessary infrastructure and capabilities.
The agency is placing a strong emphasis on training and capacity building to address the continent’s space-related challenges. Dr. Ouattara highlighted the need to develop skills across three key segments: ground infrastructure, space infrastructure, and downstream services. He noted that French-speaking African countries currently lag behind their English and Portuguese-speaking counterparts in space technology development.
AfSA is also prioritizing the development of Africa’s satellite capabilities. With only about forty of the world’s thousands of satellites, the continent currently relies heavily on rented or purchased satellite products and services. The agency aims to increase African ownership and control over space assets, recognizing the continent’s potential as the second-largest in the world.
Financing remains a critical aspect of AfSA’s plans.
READ ALSO
The agency intends to work with national authorities, regional economic communities, and continental bodies to position space technology at the heart of African development. By demonstrating the value of space-based solutions, AfSA hopes to secure funding for ambitious projects that will benefit multiple countries and promote African integration.
Looking ahead, Dr. Ouattara emphasized the importance of training young Africans in all aspects of space technology, including Earth observation, satellite telecommunications, positioning and navigation, and astronomy.
He also called for the development of robust data-sharing policies and regulatory frameworks to protect critical information. As AfSA prepares for full operations, it is reaching out to African experts both on the continent and in the diaspora, aiming to mobilize the best talent to drive Africa’s space ambitions forward.
