The Egyptian Space Agency (EgSA) has launched a key training programme to empower engineers from 20 African nations in satellite technology. This initiative, under the African Development Satellite Initiative (AfDev-Sat), aims to enhance indigenous space capabilities across Africa. The 10-day training, running from January 13 to 23, is themed “Basic Space Technology and Satellite Systems Workshop.”
The training programme is part of a broader effort to support Africa’s ambitions in space technology. Participating countries include Angola, Kenya, Nigeria, Zambia, and others, all focused on developing indigenous capabilities in space systems.
The initiative is being led by EgSA’s expert team, with topics covering space project management, satellite subsystem design, orbital simulation, and satellite testing. Participants will also engage in hands-on activities, including self-design sessions and group-based satellite system simulations.
Building African expertise in space
Dr. Sherif Sedky, CEO of EgSA, emphasized that the training programme represents a significant step in a larger vision to enhance Africa’s space sector. Egypt, as the host of the African Space Agency, is investing in its facilities and infrastructure to promote collaboration across the continent. The goal is to develop space technologies that can benefit African nations and further global space exploration.
Ambassador Osama Elhady, Deputy Secretary-General of the Egyptian Agency for Partnership in Development (EAPD), highlighted the longstanding partnership between EAPD and EgSA. This collaboration has been pivotal in aligning space science with Africa’s development priorities. Since the inception of the AfDev-Sat initiative, EAPD has played a crucial role in building the technical capacity of African nations.
Read also: Egypt’s Space Agency kicks off training for 20 African nations in satellite technology
Women in space technology
Dr. Tidiane Ouattara, President of the African Space Agency’s Council, expressed his excitement about the increasing participation of women in space science. He praised Egypt’s leadership in fostering integration and collaboration across the continent, and noted that this training programme has equipped numerous professionals with the expertise to support their countries’ space development.
A bright future for African space initiatives
Since its launch in 2021, the AfDev-Sat initiative has successfully trained engineers from 34 African countries. The programme aims to build self-reliance in space technology and equip participants with the skills needed to develop and operate satellite systems in their home countries. As more nations join the initiative, the collective goal is to make Africa a global leader in space exploration and innovation.
EgSA’s ongoing efforts in space technology are essential to achieving Africa’s technological independence. By providing specialised training and fostering strong partnerships, Egypt is paving the way for a collaborative future in space for the entire continent.