Senegal launches ambitious space program during space week

Dakar played host to a groundbreaking space summit as the Senegalese Agency for Space Studies (ESSA) successfully organized the first-ever SENEGAL SPACE WEEK on May 15-16, 2025. The high-profile event at the King Fahd Palace brought together government leaders, international experts, and private sector partners to chart Senegal's path toward becoming a spacefaring nation. 

Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, represented by Minister of Higher Education Dr. El Hadji Abdourahmane Diouf, presided over the opening ceremony that set the tone for two days of intensive discussions. The summit featured strategic agreement signings, including partnerships with CDC Senegal and Japanese AI firm Solafune, Inc., positioning Senegal at the forefront of Africa's space technology revolution. 

The event's panel sessions saw robust exchanges on critical space development topics, with notable participation from RASCOM Director General who shared insights on regional space cooperation during a dedicated session. Experts from various sectors - including diplomats, engineers, educators and students - contributed to vibrant discussions about Senegal's space ambitions. 

Concurrent with the Space Week, Senegal celebrated the conclusion of its groundbreaking #SPACEBUS2025 national tour, an outreach initiative that engaged thousands of young Senegalese across 14 regions over 25 stops. The program, launched by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, successfully sparked nationwide interest in space science and technology careers. 

"This Space Week marks a pivotal moment for Senegal's technological future," commented an ESSA spokesperson. "Through these partnerships and discussions, we're laying the foundation for a robust space ecosystem that will drive innovation across multiple sectors." 

The event solidified Senegal's position as an emerging leader in Africa's space sector, with concrete agreements now translating vision into action. ESSA extended gratitude to all participants and partners who contributed to the success of both the Space Week and the #SPACEBUS2025 initiative, signaling the start of a new chapter in Senegal's scientific and technological development. 

By:  Kanto Kai Okanta