Senegal and Rwanda Disclose Plans to develop Space Infrastructure

Col. Francis Ngabo, Chief Executive Officer, Rwanda Space Agency

Colonel Francis Ngabo of the Rwandan Space Agency has disclosed that the agency intends to develop its ground station later this year, together with a ground station-as-a-service initiative. The Colonel announced this information during the second day of Space in Africa’s maiden NewSpace Africa Conference.

He made the disclosure while discussing the country’s space milestones, including Rwanda’s first satellite, the establishment of the space agency and, subsequently, the Rwandan geospatial hub. In addition to the above, Colonel Francis Ngabo also revealed that Rwanda was working on its national space legislation and policy, which would be ready later this year.

Meanwhile, Dr Gayane Faye, Coordinator of the Senegal Space Programme, took the opportunity as a keynote speaker during the conference to disclose Senegal’s plans to launch its first satellite in the third quarter of 2023. In addition to the satellite, Dr Gayenne noted that the country would also soon launch the Senegalese space agency

In addition to the revelations, the colonel discussed the importance of the private sector in the development of the space ecosystem in Rwanda. He also noted the agency prioritises human capacity development and innovation to develop a self-sustaining ecosystem. To this end, he concluded his speech with an impassioned call to action for investors to potentially invest in the nation’s space programme.

The 3-day conference themed “Making Africa the New Hotspot for Space Business“ features selected keynotes, interactive sessions, panel discussions, business pitches, B2B matchmaking, B2C matchmaking and unique networking opportunities. Furthermore, the high-level event features over 100 delegates from 29 countries across four continents, including heads of African space agencies and top industry leaders, representatives from the leading commercial space companies, investors, and other critical stakeholders in the African space and satellite industry.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.