Ghana launches landmark Space Science Policy

Date:

Share post:

Ghana has launched a comprehensive policy for the utilisation of space science technology to drive national development.


The Ghana Space Policy would pave way for the establishment of the Ghana Space Agency to coordinate the development of human capital, infrastructure, and the overall growth of the space science sector.


Mrs. Ophelia Hayford, Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI) launched the Policy at a ceremony in Accra on Tuesday.


Cabinet approved the Ghana Space Policy in March 2022.


Ghana has been employing space technologies in critical areas such as environmental monitoring, security, precision agriculture, navigation, weather forecasting, disaster management, and telecommunications.


Mrs. Hayford said the Policy would ensure that the deployment and usage of space technology were coordinated, regulated, standardised, and sustainably managed.


She said the Ministry would collaborate with relevant ministries and the private sector to ensure the successful implementation of the Policy.


“Let us leverage it (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,” the Minister said.


In 2011, Ghana signed the African Square Kilometre Array (SKA) partnership agreement with South Africa and seven other African countries to develop the world’s largest radio telescope network to explore the universe and conduct leading-edge research.


Dr. Joseph Bremang Tandoh, Director, Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute, said investments in Ghana’s space programme were necessary to support agriculture, infrastructure, and economic growth.


“Space technology can help us manage resources, track agricultural health, and mitigate climate change,” he said.


“With this policy, we are not just joining the space race but creating opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and technological advancement,” Dr Tandoh added.


Dr Kofi Asare, Manager, Remote Sensing and Climate Sector, said the country could utilise space technology to effectively manage her land and water resources to reduce destruction.


Under agriculture, he said satellite technology could help to monitor crop health, soil conditions, weather patterns and crop yield prediction and estimation.


Professor Elvis Asare-Bediako, Vice-Chancellor, University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR), said the University was working towards undergraduate and postgraduate programmes to train students in space technology.


“We are ready and equipped with expertise to partner with the Government to push the exploration of space technology to its appropriate height,” he said.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Related articles

Ghana nearly lost over US$9 billion to unjustified claims in four years—AG

Mr. Godfred Yeboah Dame, the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, has disclosed that Ghana was at risk of...

Our elections should not be a matter of life and death – Mama Bobi pleads

Traditional ruler and Judge Mama Bobi III has made a passionate appeal to preserve Ghana’s peace and democratic...

SUTESCO 1994-year group marks 30th anniversary

The 1994-year group of the Old Students Association of Suhum Senior High Technical School (SUTESCO), has celebrated its...

Ghana to Host 2025 World Scrabble Championship

Ghana has been awarded the rights to host World Scrabble Championship, after edging out Thailand in the bidding...