SANSA and NASRDA sign MoU to strengthen South Africa–Nigeria space cooperation
Date: 2025-11-05
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
The
South African National Space Agency (SANSA) and Nigeria’s National Space
Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) have signed a Memorandum of
Understanding aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation and accelerating
joint space development initiatives across the continent.
The
agreement, signed under the auspices of South Africa’s Department of Science,
Technology and Innovation, marks a significant milestone in advancing Africa’s
strategic footprint in global space science and technology. Both institutions
say the MoU will deepen collaboration in critical areas including space
research, satellite technology development, data sharing, earth observation
applications, and capacity building across both countries.
Humbulani
Mudau, CEO of SANSA, described the partnership as a major step in driving
impactful space programmes, enhancing Africa’s collective technical
capabilities and leveraging shared resources for broader socio-economic
benefits. Nigeria and South Africa remain two of Africa’s most advanced
space-faring nations and both continue to play central leadership roles in
shaping continental space cooperation through the African Union and related
institutional frameworks.
The
new MoU is expected to boost innovation, unlock cross-border industry
opportunities, improve policy synergies, and support emerging talent within the
sector.
