The Zimbabwe National Geospatial and Space Agency will deploy earth observation satellites, global navigation satellite systems, UAVs geospatial and space technologies.
Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa Tuesday launched a space agency, hailing it as a “milestone” as he campaigns ahead of elections at the end of the month.
The Zimbabwe National Geospatial and Space Agency will deploy earth observation satellites, global navigation satellite systems, unmanned aerial vehicles, geospatial and space technologies for better farming, mineral exploration, wildlife conservation, infrastructure management and disease surveillance, he said in Harare.
“This initiative is expected to enhance Zimbabwe’s capabilities in global discourses on generation, access, use and regulation of the application of space technology and innovation for sustainable development.”
Tapping into global technological advancements would also aid the country’s industrial agenda as the country strives to attain a middle income economy by 2030,
Venturing into space technology, the minister said, would open doors for skilled Zimbabweans living outside the country to come back and assist in building the industry.
South African Space Advisory Company official Turcia Busakwe lauded the development, saying it was no longer expensive to invest in space technologies given advancements in technology.
Busakwe said her company was prepared to help Zimbabwe until it was able to launch its own satellite into space.
“One of the biggest benefits of investment in space systems is national pride,” she said, adding the creation of high-tech industries and promotion of science, technology, engineering and mathematics education were other benefits.