African space programmes are being executed with full throttle, as more nations on the continent take bold steps into space technology and satellite development. With increasing ambition, countries like Senegal, Zimbabwe, and Djibouti are launching their own satellites, showcasing the rapid growth of Africa’s presence in space. These developments mark a significant leap for African nations seeking technological sovereignty and aiming to address local challenges through space technology. Senegal’s Milestone in Space A major milestone in African space efforts came on August 16, when Senegal launched its first satellite, GaindeSAT-1A. The small CubeSat is designed to provide earth observation and telecommunications services, making it a critical tool for the country’s technological advancement. Senegalese President Macky Sall hailed the satellite’s launch as a step towards “technological sovereignty,” demonstrating that the country is committed to expanding its capabilities in space. GaindeSAT-1A is part of a growing wave of satellite launches across Africa. To date, 17 African countries have launched over 60 satellites into orbit, and more are expected in the coming years. Despite this progress, African nations currently lack their own space launch facilities, relying on partnerships with global space agencies to get their technology into orbit. Nonetheless, the execution of these …