The African Union Commission (AUC) has expressed optimism about the progress of the African Outer Space programme, citing strong political will from African governments to foster a viable space programme for the continent.
The AUC Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology & Innovation, Professor Mohammed Belhocine stated that the African governments are committed to resource allocation for the African Outer Space programme, emphasising its importance in addressing the social, economic, political and environmental needs of the continent.
The African outer space programme is a coordinated continental initiative aimed at developing a regulatory framework that supports the African space agenda, ensuring responsible and peaceful use of outer space. Currently hosted by Egypt, the programme signifies a significant step toward advancing Africa’s capabilities in space exploration and technology.
During the opening of the First GMES & Africa Phase 2 Forum, Belhocine congratulated Egypt for hosting the African Space Agency and commended the joint efforts between Egypt and the African Union Commission to make the agency operational. He highlighted the political will among African governments as a crucial factor in nurturing and building a viable space programme.
Belhocine addressed the challenges of climate change, emphasising its impact on sustainable development. He noted the increased risks of food insecurity for households in Africa dependent on rain-fed agriculture. Despite the considerable commitment of resources by African governments to respond to extreme weather events, natural hazards are on the rise, deepening economic and environmental challenges.
“The aim is to ensure improved standards of living with transformed, inclusive and sustained economies in the continent,” Belhocine stated, emphasising that the African Outer Space programme aligns with the Agenda 2063 goals.
The program is supported by the GMES and Africa initiative, a collaborative effort between the European Union and the African Union Commission. This initiative has achieved notable success in thematic domains such as water and natural resources, coastal areas, and marine areas. Belhocine commended the GMES and Africa initiative for its contributions, making it a reference for continental and international collaboration on earth observation.
The ongoing GMES and Africa Phase 2 Forum serves as a continental platform for engagement among Earth Observation (EO) service providers, policymakers, academia, the private sector and end-users. The Forum aims to discuss achievements and lessons learned, map potential partnerships and assure sustainable ownership, linking with existing initiatives.
Belhocine’s positive outlook reflects the growing commitment and collaboration among African nations to explore the vast potential offered by space technology for the benefit of the continent’s development. The establishment and progression of the African Outer Space programme signify a transformative journey toward harnessing the opportunities presented by space exploration for the advancement of African societies.
