SPACE SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN AFRICA

SPACE SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN AFRICA

It is common knowledge that Science, Technology and Innovation are the bedrock of Vision 2030.  It is widely accepted that a knowledge- based economy will be the engine of any developed country.  As I participated in African Leadership Conference on Space Science and Technology for sustainable Development in Mombasa recently; what is space science and how does it impact the society. I asked myself how we can demystify the space technology? 

There are several ways that space technology could be applied for sustainable development. About 80% of land in Kenya is classified as semi- arid area, with unreliable rainfall which leads to decrease in agricultural production and increased poverty level, infact, hunger has been on our door steps on several occasions.  Space science technology through its application of remote sensing, global positioning systems and geographic information system gives information that when appropriately used would increase agricultural production.

On other hand, wetland degradation, unlike wetland loss, is difficult to detect and quantify.  However satellite image from high resolution sensors can be used to determine the parameters that measure wetland quality – which is still a challenge in Kenya.  Equally, the space technology can be used to obtain potential zones for finding different types of fish species in the ocean and lakes.  Kenya is blessed with about 620km coastline and about 210 nm, what have we done to tap into this great resource?

Imagine the enormous resources that can be identified and tapped; resources that for a long time have remained unexploited.  The technology can be extended even further from water purification, telemedicine and wireless networks to satellite imagery to improve environmental decision making to disaster warning and relief services, and environmental monitoring and management. 

During the recent conference in Mombasa, a common vision of African State was shared.  It came out clearly that space has no boundaries and required consolidated effort.  The need for improved coordination of current and future activities in space science in order to maximize the outputs was underscored. This to my opinion, will foster multi-lateral cooperation and largely eliminate the needs for any single country to shoulder the full burden of developing capability to utilize space applications.

A starting point in my opinion is on capacity building in satellite engineering, training scientists and engineers should be on top of the agenda.  After all, it’s the human resources that will deliver the Vision 2030. Kenya must develop significant number of space professionals and maintain national space capacities to develop space science and technology. A strong science and technology base is essential for supporting Kenya space capabilities.  This could be easily achieved by popularizing space activities as well as developing an early curiosity and future career interest among the youths in space science and technology.

The development of the necessary capacity including promotion for youth participation in space activities is important to nations that aspire to reap benefits out of space Science & Technology. May be included in school curricula?

Space science and technology research capacity is vital for innovation and industrial development with the aim of utilizing space applications to contribute to economic growth, reduction of poverty and creation of knowledge.  In the near future the establishment of Space Science Technology Research Institute in Kenya will be a necessity to coordinate all matters related to space sciences.

International co-operation offers opportunities in strengthening space technology capabilities with other emerging space nations. These capabilities will be realized through co-ordination and co-operative governance in addition to partnership and linkages with other nationals in areas of mutual interest for the peaceful uses of outer space. In the long term I envisage the establishment of Regional Centre for Space Science and Technology Education that will work closely with our Universities.

Knowledge about space, gained through scientific studies can have enormous economic and social benefit that contributes to meeting many societal needs, from human security to sustainable development. The use of space science for development in Africa presents opportunities that cannot be ignored, and there is need to establish institutional arrangements to enable Africa to tap the benefits.

The world is not about to slow down because Africa is lagging behind.  We need to frog jump to catch up; and is possible.  We must implement the policies that we have put in place. It is equally vital we put in adequate resources to support any viable initiatives in this area. I believe partnership between government and private sector linking up with Academia and research should make us realize our vision in using space science for sustainable development.