The South
African National Space Agency (SANSA) has hosted the Deputy Minister of
Science, Technology, and Innovation, Ms. Nomalungelo Gina, at their
state-of-the-art Space Operations facility in Hartebeeshoek today.
The visit
provided an opportunity for SANSA to showcase its world-class ground station
infrastructure and share insights on the agency's new vision, strategic
direction, and flagship initiatives.
During her
visit, the Deputy Minister was briefed on the agency's evolving role in the
space industry, including its commitment to enhancing South Africa's space
capabilities. As part of the engagement, SANSA Management outlined the agency’s
core objectives and how they align with the national priorities and the
government's broader imperatives. These include using space technology to
address key socio-economic challenges such as climate change, environmental
monitoring, and the digital divide.
The Honourable
Deputy Minister expressed her appreciation for SANSA’s work and offered
strategic guidance on how the agency can further contribute to national
development goals. She outlined the importance of space technology in
addressing critical issues such as disaster management, agricultural
development, and telecommunications, emphasizing the role SANSA plays in
positioning South Africa as a regional leader in space science and technology.
The Deputy
Minister’s visit concluded with a tour of the Hartebeeshoek facility, where
SANSA demonstrated its advanced ground station operations.
By: Kanto Okanta