SHARON KAVHU -DAFONSECA
The Southern African Science Service Centre for Climate Change and Adaptive Land Management (SASSCAL) has welcomed the use of earth observation data for sustainable development in Africa.
This is part of the transition of the Global Monitoring for Environment and Security and Africa (GMES) and Africa Programme to the African Space Agency (AfSA).
GMES & Africa, is a joint initiative between the European Union and the African Union.
It aims to strengthen the use of Earth Observation (EO) data and technologies for sustainable development in Africa. Essentially, it’s a program designed to improve environmental management and decision-making in Africa by leveraging space-based technology and data
According to SASSCAL the Development marks a new chapter in the continent’s drive toward a unified and sustainable space agenda.
The announcement was made by Dr. Tidiane Ouattara, President of the African Space Council of AFSA.
He described the development as a strategic move by the African Union Commission to consolidate space-related programmes under a single continental authority.
The transition is expected to foster improved coordination, long-term sustainability, and a stronger African voice in global space and earth observation initiatives.
“As a proud implementing partner of the GMES and Africa Programme, SASSCAL reaffirms its full commitment to this new phase under AfSA’s leadership,” said Professor Nelago Indongo, Executive Director of SASSCAL.
Through its regional initiative, the Wetland Monitoring and Assessment System for Transboundary Basins in Southern Africa (WeMAST), SASSCAL has played a pivotal role in using Earth Observation (EO) technologies to enhance monitoring and management of vital wetland ecosystems. “WeMAST supports evidence-based decision-making in water resources, land use, and environmental governance in Southern Africa. With this transition, SASSCAL looks forward to enhanced collaboration, improved coordination, and greater visibility under the African Space Agency,” Prof. Indongo added.
As the GMES and Africa Programme aligns with AfSA’s institutional framework, all future communication, branding, and stakeholder engagements will reflect the African Space Agency’s official identity.
SASSCAL expressed its appreciation for the continued support from the GMES and Africa Coordination Team and reiterated its commitment to advancing the objectives of the Programme, now under the stewardship of AfSA.
This transition marks a key milestone in Africa’s collective efforts to harness space science for climate resilience, environmental stewardship, and sustainable development across the continent.
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