Kenya Space Agency and Expertise France Sign Collaboration Framework Agreement

On November 26, 2024, the Kenya Space Agency (KSA) and Expertise France (EF) signed a cooperation agreement to boost space-related collaborations. The partnership aims to strengthen Kenya’s space capabilities through capacity building, promoting Earth Observation (EO) data usage, and fostering innovation ecosystems. The capability and capacity-building programmes aim to strengthen human and institutional capabilities, including light infrastructure projects. Furthermore, in facilitating data uptake, the programme will aim to enhance local capabilities to use satellite and Earth observation data across different sectors more effectively. This includes supporting universities, community organisations, and private businesses in applying advanced geospatial technologies to address sustainable development challenges. 

Additionally, a key focus is establishing an EO Data Lab under the “Data Governance in Africa” initiative, supported by the African Union and Team Europe Initiative (TEI). TEI is jointly financed by the European Union (EU) and five EU member states: Belgium, Estonia, Finland, France, and Germany. The lab will further bolster Kenya’s efforts to address developmental challenges through space-driven solutions. This collaboration highlights how both organisations aim to leverage cutting-edge space technologies and innovative solutions to drive meaningful change, with a focus on Kenya and potential broader regional impact.

Expertise France is the French public international cooperation agency that designs and implements projects that contribute to the balanced development of partner countries. In addition, its efforts align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda and France’s external action priorities.