SANSA and Stats SA sign MoU to boost data-driven decision making in South Africa
Date: 2025-12-16
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
The
South African National Space Agency (SANSA) and Statistics South Africa (Stats
SA) have formalised a strategic partnership through the signing of a Memorandum
of Understanding (MoU) on December 15, 2025. The agreement was signed by Mr.
Humbulani Mudau, CEO of SANSA, and Mr. Risenga Maluleke, Statistician-General
and Head of Stats SA.
The
partnership will allow Stats SA to leverage SANSA’s Earth Observation
capabilities, integrating official statistics with satellite imagery, Earth
Observation data, and advanced technologies including artificial intelligence
and machine learning. The collaboration is expected to enhance government
planning, decision-making, and service delivery.
The
MoU outlines working smarter through strengthened communication, shared
expertise, and co-development of innovative tools to support decision-makers in
understanding South Africa’s population, geography, and development priorities.
SANSA and Stats SA aim to build a stronger evidence base to advance a more
data-driven approach to national development.
