Accra, Ghana – The Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute (GSSTI) has reaffirmed the country’s growing leadership in Africa’s space development efforts, underscoring its progress since the launch of its first satellite, GhanaSat-1, in 2017 and the adoption of the Ghana Space Policy in 2024.
Speaking at the ongoing Ghana Space Conference at the University of Ghana, Accra, GSSTI officials emphasized the nation’s commitment to harnessing space science and technology for socio-economic transformation. The institute is spearheading efforts to coordinate cross-sectoral collaboration, build local capacity, and create a thriving market for space-based applications.
“The establishment of the Ghana Space Agency will ensure national coordination and efficient resource use across sectors such as the environment, communications, and education. Our goal is to strengthen Ghana’s human resource and technological base to leverage space technology for the benefit of the ordinary Ghanaian,”
— Dr. Joseph Tandoh, Director, Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse, called for deeper national commitment to space science applications—particularly in agriculture and mining, two sectors critical to Ghana’s economy but increasingly vulnerable to climate change, land degradation, and unsustainable resource use.
Prof. Klutse emphasized that integrating satellite data, remote sensing, and geospatial technologies can revolutionize environmental monitoring, precision agriculture, and sustainable mineral exploration.
She noted that the global space economy, currently valued at USD 600 billion, is projected to exceed USD 1.3 trillion within the next decade—offering both economic and strategic opportunities for Ghana.
“We must invest in local capacity development in space technology production, data analytics, and innovation-led research. This will enable Ghana to harness emerging opportunities within the global space ecosystem,” she said.
Her remarks positioned the EPA as a champion of cross-sectoral collaboration, urging academia, government, and private industry to work together in leveraging space science as a catalyst for sustainable environmental management and resilient national development.
Professor Melvin Hoare from the University of Leeds highlighted the role of astronomy and space science in inspiring youth in STEM and driving innovation in data science and remote sensing.
He noted that the conversion of a 32-meter telecom dish into a functional radio telescope in Ghana has significantly boosted research and technical training for local scientists.
Prof. Hoare cited several international partnerships contributing to Ghana’s progress, including:
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The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) Human Capital Development program;
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The Development in Africa with Radio Astronomy (DARA) project, funded by the UK government;
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The Big Data Project, which trains Ghanaians in data analytics for applications such as remote sensing and medical imaging.
“These initiatives are strengthening Ghana’s human capital base and creating pathways for entrepreneurship and job creation within the space economy,” he said.
Ghana’s achievements in space development include:
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The 2017 launch of GhanaSat-1, marking its entry into the global space community;
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The 2022 approval of the Ghana Space Policy, establishing a governance framework for the sector;
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Active participation in the Square Kilometer Array (SKA) project—an international collaboration involving eight African countries to build one of the world’s largest radio telescope networks.
Dr. Tandoh revealed that a draft Ghana Space Bill will be presented to Parliament by the end of the year, marking another major step toward institutionalizing space governance in the country. He also announced plans to:
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Continue capacity building in radio astronomy and space disciplines through training and partnerships;
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Leverage synergies between radio astronomy, data science, and applied research such as remote sensing and medical imaging;
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Expand astronomy education and research at University of Cape Coast (UCC) and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST);
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Promote gender equality and equal participation of women and men in space and astronomy programs.
“Our vision is to develop space sector hubs that stimulate economic growth while ensuring gender equity and equal opportunities for all trained professionals,” Dr. Tandoh added.
GSSTI’s initiatives align with the African Union’s continental strategy to build indigenous space capabilities and strengthen Africa’s participation in the global space economy. With sustained investment, policy support, and human capital development, Ghana is positioning itself as a key player in Africa’s rapidly expanding space frontier.
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