The African Space Council of the African Space Agency has urged African countries to focus on developing the continent’s human capital in space science and technology to take advantage of the opportunities available. The President of the council, Tidiane Ouattara, highlighted the need for creating a critical mass of expertise in space science in Africa. The African Space Agency, established as an independent organ of the African Union, is working towards promoting the use of space science and technology through continental collaboration and advancing relevant knowledge and skills.
Ouattara noted that while some African countries like Nigeria, Algeria, Egypt, South Africa, and Morocco are pioneers in the space sector, many others lack dedicated space policies and institutions. He emphasized the importance of training young people in space science to utilize their capabilities for various applications such as disaster risk reduction, climate change adaptation, rural and urban development.
Despite the lack of robust data-sharing practices and policy frameworks in Africa’s space sector, Ouattara stressed the need for enhanced coordination and cooperation among countries to benefit from data exchange mechanisms. He highlighted the importance of partnerships, both within Africa and internationally, in developing the continent’s space capabilities.
With over 60% of Africa’s population being young, there is a significant opportunity to leverage their skills and knowledge in space science. Ouattara emphasized the need for African countries to work together to build local capacity and increase the number of young people knowledgeable about space science to fully harness the potential of the sector.
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