Maximising the Use of Space Applications in Implementing the Sustainable Development Goals in Africa

The socio-economic challenges on the African continent are enormous and to tackle these challenges in a sustainable manner requires a systematic approach that cuts across a number of dimensions. There needs to be a stronger emphasis on transformative social and economic policies; whilst securing effective governance and democratic rule are preconditions for attaining regional stability, building confidence and reaching Africa’s aspirations. Global Agendas such as Agenda 2030 and Agenda 2063, if appropriately adopted, become the guiding lens for implementing the socio-economic imperatives of Africa. This expose briefly looks at the underlying context, both historical and current, and connects the African aspirations, as enshrined in the African Agenda 2063, with the Sustainable Development Goals, as reflected in the global Agenda 2030. Core to the optimal achievement of these Agendas is the need for context relevant data. A case is made for spatial data, packaged as space applications services and products, to inform evidence-based policy making and to track the implementation progress of these Agendas. This expose further motivates for an African space programme based on the recently approved African Space Policy and African Space Strategy but cautions that the governance framework for the African Union proposed African Space Agency must be appropriately configured to service the needs of the African user community.