Malawi to benefit from space technology: Minister Kazako

Kazako made the remarks on Wednesday, November 9, 2022, during the official launch of the country's first-ever three-day space conference, which is currently underway in Lilongwe.

Kazako (centre)

Malawi: Gospel Kazako, Minister of Information and Digitization, says the country will benefit economically from space technology because people will be able to access critical information on issues of national interest across borders, encouraging transparency and accountability.

He made the remarks on Wednesday, November 9, 2022, during the official launch of the country's first-ever three-day space conference, which is currently underway in Lilongwe.

Malawi will benefit economically from this, according to Kazako, because the country will be able to use satellite data to manage existing operations such as agriculture, mapping, and climate science.

"We can not speak about Malawi 2063 and leave out the component of space development which has enormous benefits to the country in terms of communication and easy access to information, and be assured that this program will benefit every Malawian", he explained.

"As you are aware that Malawi envisions a vibrant digital environment and space exploration is an enabler for the future we envisage, the space program will provide us with a voice in the exploration of global space initiatives and help the country protect its orbital slot, which it risks losing if not utilised."

Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) Director General Daudi Suleman agreed with Kazako that the government is looking into the country's potential for harnessing space resources for scientific and technological advancement.

"The first approach as MACRA since this is new, we will work to increase awareness in rural areas so that everyone will get to benefit. This is a platform for the country to engage in the global space community and establish itself as a major space-faring nation,” he said.

Sulemani(second from left)

According to Space in Africa's African Space Industry Annual Report 2022, 12 African nations have launched 48 satellites as of 2022. According to estimates, the African space economy was worth USD 19.49 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow by 16.16% to USD 22.64 billion by 2026.