Tanzania secures orbital slot, paving way for first satellite launch
What you need to know:
- This historic achievement, announced by Minister of Information, Communication and Information Technology Nape Nnauye, marks a significant step forward in the country's space ambitions.
Dar es Salaam. Tanzania has secured a crucial position in orbit for its first satellite, paving the way for its launch into the cosmos.
This historic achievement, announced by Minister of Information, Communication and Information Technology Nape Nnauye, marks a significant step forward in the country's space ambitions.
"This success is one of the fruits of the 2023 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC23)!" Mr Nnauye declared, marking the culmination of intense efforts on the international stage.
This new orbit, at 16 degrees West, grants Tanzania a dedicated space in the vast celestial expanse.
This news comes after Mr Nnauye's earlier assurance in July, where he pledged the government's unwavering commitment to launching the country's maiden satellite within the year.
"We are confident," he stated, "and we are currently laying the groundwork."
The potential of a national satellite for Tanzania is vast. Sectors like communication, agriculture, disaster management, and allied industries stand to benefit immensely from its capabilities. Furthermore, the technology extends beyond these immediate applications, touching upon natural resource exploration and other vital economic sectors.
Across the African continent, a select few nations have already embraced the power of satellite technology.
Egypt leads the pack with nine satellites in orbit, followed by South Africa (eight), Algeria (seven), and Nigeria (six). Others like Morocco, Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda, and Mauritius join the ranks of spacefaring nations.
Tanzania's vision to join this elite group resonated with investors worldwide, highlighting the global recognition of the country's potential.
Additionally, scholars and politicians have consistently voiced their concerns about Tanzania lagging behind in the global space race.
Professor Sospeter Muhongo, MP for Musoma Rural, emphasized the importance of space science for propelling economic growth. "Tanzania needs its own satellites," he declared, "just like our neighbors Kenya and Rwanda, who have launched theirs in recent years."
With the secured orbit and the unwavering spirit of innovation, Tanzania's journey to space is no longer a distant dream.
