Congo secures $20m funding for Earth Observation satellite
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has announced plans to purchase an Earth Observation satellite using a $20m financing arrangement from Sicomines, a strategic mining partnership between Chinese and Congolese investors, reported Space in Africa .
The announcement was made by Gilbert Kabanda, Minister of Scientific Research and Technological Innovation, during a plenary Senate session held in early December. This initiative represents a strategic move to enhance the countrys technological independence and improve the management of its vast natural and geographic resources.
Minister Kabanda emphasised the satellites potential to transform governance and infrastructure management in the DRC. He highlighted the establishment of a commission tasked with defining the satellites technical specifications, signalling a methodical approach to the project. This satellite will mark an important step toward strengthening our technological sovereignty and improving territorial management, Minister Kabanda stated.
The satellite is expected to be critical in modernising geographic infrastructure, safeguarding strategic data, and supporting territorial observation. Its key applications will include identifying agricultural zones and industrial areas for more effective resource management, mapping areas with insufficient road networks to guide infrastructure development, enhancing border surveillance and addressing security concerns in rebel-affected regions, monitoring regions prone to natural disasters for timely interventions, and providing oversight to combat unregulated mining activities.
With this new satellite, the DRC seeks to integrate advanced technological tools into its resource management strategies while addressing infrastructure deficits. By collaborating with international partners and utilising funding from initiatives like Sicomines, the DRC aims to bridge critical gaps in infrastructure and modernise its digital landscape. Tags: SicominesMinister of Scientific Research and Technological Innovation
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