Eswatini hosts Space Science Indaba to promote national development agenda

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye

The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) of Eswatini, through its Department of Research, Science, Technology and Innovation (RSTI), has successfully hosted a Space Science Indaba aimed at strengthening national dialogue on the role of space science, satellite technology and innovation in sustainable development.

Held under the theme “Harnessing Space Science for Sustainable Development,” the high-level forum brought together government officials, academia, industry leaders, international partners and young innovators to explore how space-based technologies can support service delivery, research and economic growth.

In remarks delivered on behalf of the Principal Secretary, government reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging space science as a catalyst for inclusive socio-economic transformation, in alignment with national, regional and continental development priorities. The statement underscored Eswatini’s ambition to harness space science and technology to drive sustainable development outcomes.

The Principal Secretary’s message also highlighted ongoing initiatives, including investments in high-performance computing infrastructure, the development of space-related services, youth empowerment programmes and strategic partnerships designed to build a knowledge-based and digitally inclusive society. These efforts align with the Ministry’s broader “Government in Your Hand” initiative.

Officially welcoming participants, the Director of RSTI emphasized that Eswatini is taking deliberate steps to position itself within the global space ecosystem. She noted that work is underway to develop a National Space Policy and Strategy, stressing that space science has moved beyond aspiration to become a practical tool for national transformation.