Towards a Space Policy Institute for Africa

Abstract

African countries, both individually and as a regional bloc, are expressing increasing interest in developing space programmes to optimise the societal benefits derived from space applications. Such programmes are usually informed and directed by Space Policies, Strategies and Technology Roadmaps. There is, however, a shortage of knowledge and expertise in the drafting of such crucial instruments and in analysing the changing global space policy context and the implications for Africa. Also, no platform currently exists in Africa for advising decision-makers and policymakers on space-related matters. This article highlights the need to establish institutional capacity on the African continent for analysis of the policy environment and the development of relevant framework instruments that shape and characterise the agenda of space programmes. The article examines the models of existing space policy platforms elsewhere in the world and makes a case for the establishment of an African Space Policy Institute. Some considerations for its strategic objectives, programmes, structure and funding arrangements are also discussed.