India supports African space aspirations

As India prepares for two significant space missions next year, including the much-anticipated first uncrewed flight under the Gaganyaan mission, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has affirmed its commitment to supporting African nations in their burgeoning space aspirations. The announcement comes as the continent seeks to leverage space technology for sustainable development and integration into the global space economy.Speaking to a delegation of journalists from East and Southern Africa on a familiarisation visit to India this week, ISRO’s director of international and interagency cooperation, Dhandapani Gowrisankar, highlighted the importance of using space as a diplomatic tool. “We are happy the African Union (AU) is part of the G20 space project, and we hope to foster stronger relationships with African states through the AU’s participation in the G20. It is important for us at ISRO to use space as a diplomatic tool,” he said.The G20 space project, proposed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the 2023 G20 summit, is a flagship initiative aimed at enhancing global collaboration in space technology. Central to the project is the development of a satellite for weather and climate observations, which will measure critical parameters such as air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, humidity and ocean behaviour.Big data Anitha Nandini, director at the department of space, emphasised the wealth of data already available to African nations for weather modelling and scientific research. “We are readily available to support Africa in its aspirations through capacity building and the sharing of data and technology,” she said.While acknowledging the valid ambitions of African nations to join the global space economy, Nandini advised a phased approach to space exploration. “Countries such as Namibia can start with simpler methods, such as using satellite data to address pressing issues related to development, like food security,” she noted.Nandini illustrated the practical applications of satellite data for African countries. “For instance, coastal nations can use satellite data to identify areas rich in plankton, which translates to regions with abundant fish. Sharing this information with local fishermen can significantly improve food security. This is a great start to utilising space infrastructure while preparing for more ambitious space exploration projects."Model for emerging economiesIndia, which began its journey to space in the 1960s, has grown to become a formidable player in the global space economy. ISRO’s track record includes 293 international agreements with 61 countries and substantial contributions to the domestic space industry. The sector has catalysed the creation of over 50 large corporations, 450 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), 200 start-ups and one academic institution.This robust ecosystem highlights the economic potential of a well-developed space industry, making the case for Africa’s entry into the space economy compelling. India’s example showcases how investments in space technology can yield significant scientific, economic, and developmental benefits.India’s global leadership in space exploration will be further accentuated next year when it hosts the Global Space Exploration Conference from 7 to 9 May. This event will provide a platform for nations, including those from Africa, to engage in dialogue on collaborative opportunities and advancements in space science.

India supports African space aspirations

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Namibian Sun 2025-06-17

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India supports African space aspirations

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Namibian Sun 2025-06-17

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