Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Defence, Hon. Aden Duale, has announced that Kenya and India are currently engaged in bilateral discussions to explore space collaboration opportunities. He also expressed confidence in the immense potential for cooperation between the Kenya Space Agency (KSA) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

Hon. Aden Duale made these remarks during discussions held at the Defence Headquarters in Nairobi, where he hosted a delegation from the Indian Navy. The visit aimed to strengthen the ties between Kenya and India in the defence sector. Over the years, the two countries have fostered a strong and cordial relationship, characterised by joint military training, information sharing, military medical services, military games, cultural activities, and more.

The engagement with the Indian team, led by Vice Admiral Sanjay Mahindru, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff, and Her Excellency Ms Namgya Khampa, the Indian High Commissioner to Kenya, served as a follow-up to a previous high-level visit by the Kenya-India Joint Defence Cooperation Committee in November of the preceding year.

The potential collaboration between Kenya and India in the space sector is an exciting prospect, expected to encompass various areas, such as satellite technology, remote sensing, space research, and exploration. Both countries can significantly advance space science and technology by leveraging each other’s strengths and expertise. 

Furthermore, this collaboration promises to expand scientific knowledge, enhance national security capabilities, and foster economic development through space-related activities. As negotiations progress, specific areas of cooperation and joint projects are expected to be identified. The partnership between Kenya and India in the space domain is a testament to the growing importance of space exploration and utilisation on a global scale.