The Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI) has officially launched the National Space Policy, a milestone aimed at harnessing space technology for the country’s socio-economic development.
Approved by Cabinet in March 2022, the Ghana Space Policy is a framework designed to integrate space technology into the nation’s key sectors: including agriculture, environmental monitoring, telecommunications, navigation and disaster management.
The which took place in Accra at a stakeholder engagement led by sector minister Ophelia Mensah Hayford, who emphasised the policy’s potential to drive sustainable technological advancement across multiple sectors.
“Ghana’s space programme is essential to our national development goals, and the Space Policy provides the framework to ensure these applications of space technology are not only beneficial but also coordinated, regulated, standardised and sustainably managed,” she stated.
The minister noted that the policy is part of government’s strategic commitment to leveraging science and technology as pivotal tools for socioeconomic progress.
She therefore assured that MESTI is committed to implementing this policy effectively, by investing resources and establishing robust structures to support its mission.
The minister underscored the importance of international collaboration in achieving sustainable space practices and called on stakeholders, both local and international, to support the policy’s implementation.
“Let us leverage this policy to promote sustainable practices, drive technological advancement, foster international cooperation and contribute significantly to the growth of space science in Ghana and across Africa,” she urged.
Tool to foster economic growth
In his address, Dr. Joseph Bremang Tandoh, Director-Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute (GSSTI), highlighted that space technology is not merely about exploring outer space but also a tool to foster economic growth, environmental stewardship and sustainable solutions for everyday challenges.
Dr. Tandoh underscored a need to overcome pressing challenges – such as illegal mining, environmental degradation and high poverty rates, by leveraging space science as a unique asset.
He argued that while the country’s immediate needs are substantial, investing in a space policy could transform these challenges into sustainable opportunities.
Drawing parallels with countries like India, which has successfully integrated space technology into national development, he pointed out that the country could follow suit by using satellite data to improve agriculture, disaster response and environmental management. “Those nations didn’t wait until all their problems were solved,” he said, “and neither should Ghana.”
By coordinating resources and strengths across various agencies, the policy aims to establish Ghana as a competitive player in the global space economy – which is projected to reach US$1.8trillion by 2035.
Further Application
Dr. Kofi Asare, Manager-Remote Sensing and Climate Centre, GSSTI, added that by utilising satellite data Ghana can closely monitor and manage its mineral resources, tackling challenges like illegal mining that have led to significant environmental degradation.
He also highlighted how space technology can drive agricultural productivity by providing critical insights into crop-health, soil conditions and weather patterns. With accurate satellite data, farmers can make informed decisions, optimise their yields and mitigate risks associated with unpredictable weather or pest outbreaks.
He further explained that the capacity to predict crop yields through remote sensing empowers policymakers and farmers alike, fostering resilience in Ghana’s agricultural sector and enhancing overall food security.
He also pointed to the vital role of space technology in monitoring coastal and marine environments, particularly as climate change exacerbates issues like coastal erosion.
Ghana Space Agency
A central feature of the policy is transforming the Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute (GSSTI) into a fully functional Ghana Space Agency.
This transition is expected to empower the new agency in overseeing development and management of the nation’s space resources.
The agency will coordinate activities, regulate standards, issue licences, and explore Ghana’s space resources, ensuring that space technology applications align with national objectives.
The policy and space programme are part of a broader journey that Ghana embarked upon in 2011, when it signed the African Square Kilometre Array (SKA) partnership agreement with South Africa and other African countries.
This collaboration aims to develop the world’s largest radio telescope network, enhancing scientific research and exploration.
Diplomatic representatives from India, United Kingdom, United States, Nigeria and academia present at the launch commended Ghana’s effort, pledging their commitment to supporting the step.
Source: thebftonline
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