President Samia Suluhu Hassan has unveiled the ambitious plan for the nation to build and launch its own satellite into space.
Tanzania has made plans to create and launch its own satellite into orbit, joining Kenya and Uganda. This venture into space technology has enormous potential for industries such as communication, agriculture, and disaster management.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan has unveiled the ambitious plan for the nation to build and launch its own satellite into space. The engineering team and hosting location are still being kept a secret, but preparations are already in motion to reach this scientific milestone.
Tanzania has the potential to create a national satellite to improve connectivity in remote areas, close the digital divide, and increase access to vital services.
Satellite data can also provide insight into crop monitoring, vegetation health, and soil moisture, enabling farmers to make well-informed decisions about irrigation, fertilisation, and pest control. If successful, Tanzania will follow in the footsteps of Kenya and Uganda.
Tanzania’s foray into space technology follows in the footsteps of other African countries that have used space-based technologies to address social issues and advance their nations. With nine satellites launched, Egypt leads the continent. South Africa is second with eight, Algeria is third with seven, Nigeria is fourth with six, and Morocco is third with three.
On the list of African nations with satellite capabilities are Ghana, Sudan, Ethiopia, Angola, Kenya, Rwanda, and Mauritius. Kenya just completed the successful launch of its first operational earth observation satellite, which will gather vital agricultural and environmental data to aid disaster management and fight food insecurity.
Uganda launched its first satellite into the international space station with the help of three Ugandan and Japanese engineers. Tanzania’s efforts to create its own satellite come at a time when foreign investors are increasingly interested in bringing cutting-edge technology to the nation.
Elon Musk, a tech billionaire, has stated his intention to use Tanzania to launch Starlink, a SpaceX satellite internet constellation. However, before proceeding, the project must receive government approvals.
As Tanzania sets its sights on the stars, the country is prepared to open new doors and make significant strides, empowering its people and advancing the growth and development of the continent as a whole.