Space innovation in Africa tackling local problems

Africa’s space sector, while valued at US$22.64 billion in 2024, is still in its early stages—but scientists say it holds significant promise for addressing some of the continent’s development issues.

In this episode of Africa Science Focus, reporter Michael Kaloki explores how space research and innovation are being used across the continent.

Mary Makuate, a researcher at Cameroon’s Ministry of Scientific Research and Innovation, shares insights from her experience using satellite data to develop digital maps for the humanitarian response to the 2023 earthquake in Morocco.

Susan Murabana, CEO of The Travelling Telescope Africa Ltd, talks about her efforts to bring astronomy to underserved Kenyan communities.

Her mobile telescope initiative introduces students and local residents to space, aiming to spark interest in science and technology.

And Daniel Okoh, a research scientist at Nigeria’s National Space Research and Development Agency, says Africa must strengthen its own space capabilities.

He tells us how global satellite models often underrepresent the continent, due to a lack of accurate local data, and calls for greater investment in homegrown technologies.

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This podcast was supported by the Science Granting Councils Initiative which aims to strengthen the institutional capacities of 18 public science funding agencies in Sub-Saharan Africa.  

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Africa Science Focus is produced by SciDev.Net and distributed in association with your local radio station.