Ivory Coast is set to launch its first observation satellite by August 2024.
The Ivory Coast government is working with Universal Konstructors Associated (UKA) and a polytechnic institute to launch its first satellite, the Yam-Sat CI 01.
The small observation satellite should be in space by August 2024.
What They’re Saying
“With our own satellite, we will be able to better observe the advance of terrorists, map the extent of deforestation, detect illegal gold panning, or even facilitate access to drinking water,” said Boubacar Fofana, president of UKA.
Why This Matters
By launching its satellite, Côte d’Ivoire will add to the lists of other African countries with observation satellites in space. Kenya, Zimbabwe, Uganda, Egypt, and Angola have all launched satellites.
By The Numbers
Africa’s space industry is expected to grow from $19.49 billion in 2021 to $22.64 billion in 2026, in value, according to the 2022 Space in Africa report.
Source: Ecofin Agency
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