Eswatini Inaugurates Space Science Indaba to Unlock Orbital Slot Potential
The Kingdom of Eswatini officially launched Space Science Indaba 2026, an event focused on unlocking the economic and development potential of its orbital slot, a nationally allocated position in Earth’s orbit that grants the Kingdom the right to operate communication satellites. Organised by the Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology (ICT) and held on February 4, 2026, the event aimed to promote digital and technological advancement while positioning space science and technology as a strategic asset for development
The orbital slot is a strategic national resource that enables telecommunications, internet connectivity, broadcasting, weather monitoring, navigation, and satellite-based data collection, supporting national development. Held under the theme “Harnessing Space Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in Eswatini,” the Indaba explored practical ways to use satellite services to address real-world challenges and reduce reliance on foreign digital infrastructure. In a key address delivered by EBIS Director Sabelo Dlamini on behalf of Andreas Dlamini, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of ICT, the Kingdom’s vision for space-enabled development was outlined.
Eswatini’s ambition in space is clear: we aim to use space technology as a catalyst for socio-economic transformation. Our orbital slot is a strategic national asset that must be used to improve livelihoods, strengthen governance, and support innovation for all citizens,” the Principal Secretary stated.
He added: “We are committed to moving from merely consuming technology to owning and managing the systems that power our digital economy. Additionally, this shift is essential for national independence, innovation, and sustainable development.”
Priority Applications and Impact Areas
The Indaba highlighted priority areas where satellite services could deliver immediate impact, including climate monitoring, food security, digital inclusion, public service delivery, and youth empowerment. Satellite data is being leveraged to monitor weather patterns, predict droughts, and assist farmers in improving crop planning and productivity. Satellite-enabled broadband is also expanding internet access to underserved rural communities, supporting e-learning, telemedicine, and entrepreneurship.
Samkeliso Shongwe, Manager of Spectrum Management at ESCCOM, explained how satellites and radio frequency spectrum underpin modern communication: “Satellites are the mirrors of our digital age, they receive signals from Earth and reflect them back to keep our world connected. Managing spectrum is like controlling traffic in the sky, it ensures mobile networks, broadcasting, GPS, and weather services operate without interference.”
Meanwhile, Dr Rejoice Maseko, Director of Research, Science, Technology and Innovation (RSTI), highlighted how satellite and Earth observation data are already applied in real-life national planning, agriculture, environmental protection, and disaster preparedness.
Establishing the Kingdom of Eswatini Space Agency
A major announcement during the Indaba was the planned establishment of the Kingdom of Eswatini Space Agency (KESA) at RSTP, tasked with coordinating national satellite initiatives, research, and innovation. International partners, including the South African National Space Agency (SANSA) and the African Space Agency, shared best practices on managing orbital resources and building sustainable satellite ecosystems. This development follows the Kingdom’s signing of a Declaration of Intent with Stardust, a Canadian space company, to explore establishing a national space agency.
The Indaba builds upon two significant space initiatives announced last year on the margins of the UN General Assembly and Climate Week. The Stardust Project (Space 18th SDG) positions space technology as a tool to advance climate action, food security, disaster preparedness, and youth empowerment. The project will offer scholarships and STEM opportunities, aiming to nurture a generation of African innovators capable of leveraging space science for sustainable development. Meanwhile, She Powers Africa focuses on empowering women and girls aged 18–35 through training and mentorship in AI, ICT, STEM, biotechnology, cybersecurity, and climate innovation. Furthermore, the programme aims to equip over 1,000 women with the skills to drive Africa’s innovation revolution.
Strategic Vision for the Future
As the Indaba concluded, stakeholders reaffirmed that Eswatini’s orbital slot is a powerful national asset that can drive economic growth, strengthen connectivity, enhance disaster preparedness, and support informed policymaking. The Kingdom’s commitment to space science and technology signals its determination to position itself as an emerging player in Africa’s growing space sector and to address critical development challenges through satellite-enabled solutions.