Zambia has taken a significant leap into the digital age with the successful launch of its new ground receiving station in Chibombo district.
The station, constructed at a cost of US$ 14 million, is already receiving data from space, positioning Zambia at the forefront of technological advancement.
Technology and Science Minister Felix Mutati praised President Hakainde Hichilema’s leadership for prioritising tangible results, emphasising the ground station as a prime example of his commitment to development.
The station’s capabilities extend beyond data reception. It will serve as a crucial tool for decision-making and fostering development across various sectors, including agriculture, mining, and forestry.
Collaborations with international space agencies such as NASA and the Swedish and American governments will further enhance Zambia’s capacity to harness the power of space technology.
During a tour at the facility yesterday, Mutati said with successful tests from specialists conducted, government aims to harvest data from space which will be used for decision making and foster development for Zambians.
“My President is more focused on outputs, outputs that are changing lives for the people of Zambia. And I am sure that that is the focus of every Zambian too,” said Mutati.
“Our journey will be premised on partnerships and collaborations because alone we could have not done it,” said Mutati.
The minister also announced that NASA is going to help the University of Zambia with tools and equipment that will help train students in space science and technology.
Mutati added that government’s works are also aimed at output deployment and the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to help in the processing of the data.
Meanwhile, visiting Swedish Astronaut, Christer Fuglesang challenged government to ensure that the inspiration of STEM subjects in youths is planted from secondary school to universities stating that accessing data from space has potential to improve a country’s input and understanding in many areas.
Professor Fuglesang, is the first Swedish national to go to space under the European Space Agency.
Meanwhile, Deputy Head of Cooperation at the Swedish Embassy in Zambia Paula Engwall pledged the country’s support to Zambia in it’s efforts to have a thriving space programme adding that the completion of the Ground Receiving Station is a major milestone which Zambia has scored in it’s development agenda.
By Buumba Mwitumwa
Kalemba October 12, 2024
