(Ecofin Agency) - The African space sector is growing. In the last twelve months, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Uganda, Angola, and Egypt have launched satellites into space.

The Ivory Coast government is working with Universal Konstructors Associated (UKA) and a polytechnic institute to launch its first satellite, the Yam-Sat CI 01. The small observation satellite should be in space by August 2024, Adama Diawara, Ivoirian minister of scientific research recently announced. 

" With our own satellite, we will be able to better observe the advance of terrorists, map the extent of deforestation, detect illegal gold panning, or even facilitate access to drinking water," said Boubacar Fofana (photo, left), president of UKA.

This project shows the government's wish to grow its space industry and be self-reliant in space technology. President Ouattara started a feasibility study for a satellite project in 2015 and two years ago, Diawara shared plans for a space agency.

By launching its satellite, Côte d’Ivoire falls into the steps of some other African nations. Last year, Kenya launched its first satellite, Taifa-1, with SpaceX's help. Zimbabwe, Uganda, Egypt, and Angola also launched satellites. And at the moment, Russia is in talks with Algeria, Nigeria, and South Africa to help them build and launch their satellites.

Africa’s space industry is expected to grow from $19.49 billion in 2021 to $22.64 billion in 2026, in value, according to the 2022 Space in Africa report. Regarding funding, the document notes that funding for space programs in the region went up from $523.2 million in 2021 to $534.9 million in 2022.

Isaac K. Kassouwi