Latest news with #Esri
TECHx
5 hours ago
- Business
- TECHx
Space42 Partners with Microsoft, Esri on Africa Maps
Home » Tech Value Chain » Global Brands » Space42 Partners with Microsoft, Esri on Africa Maps UAE-based SpaceTech company Space42 (ADX: SPACE42), part of the G42 Group, has announced a strategic partnership with Microsoft and Esri. The collaboration was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed during Esri's 2025 User Conference. The initiative, called the 'Map Africa Initiative,' aims to deliver high-resolution, scalable base maps for all 54 African countries. It will serve over 1.4 billion people, creating the most comprehensive base map of the continent to date. The five-year project is expected to address gaps in infrastructure, investment, and data availability across Africa. The updated mapping system will help drive economic development by improving access to intelligent geospatial solutions. These solutions will support governments, businesses, and communities in both Africa and the UAE. Space42 will lead fundraising and project management, leveraging its satellite data and AI-powered Digital Twin models to create dynamic, use-specific maps. Esri will provide its remote sensing and GeoAI capabilities, while Microsoft will supply secure cloud infrastructure and an AI framework via Azure. • The initiative supports national mapping agencies with accurate, updatable data. • It also aims to create a new commercial ecosystem for African startups. The project is expected to enhance strategic sectors such as logistics, renewable energy, disaster response, and smart city planning. Data will be stored in Microsoft and G42-managed centers across Africa. Space42 CEO Hasan Al Hosani emphasized that the partnership aligns with the UAE's collaborative and innovation-driven approach. He noted that accurate mapping is essential for growth and inclusive innovation. Esri President Jack Dangermond said the initiative builds on proven geospatial workflows and will enable sustainable development across the continent. The MoU deepens Space42's partnerships with Microsoft and Esri, while expanding its presence and commercial opportunities in Africa. It also reflects Space42's role as a trusted provider of large-scale geospatial solutions for governments. G42 CEO Peng Xiao stated that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to using AI as a force for good. He said the project will help transform data into development and intelligence into impact. The initiative also aligns with the UAE's broader global investment and innovation agenda. The UAE was Africa's largest foreign investor in 2024, deploying $44 billion. Space42 plays a key role in advancing this agenda through SpaceTech and AI. The mapping initiative supports long-term goals of smart land use, modern infrastructure, and digital economies across the continent. It also strengthens diplomatic and commercial ties between the UAE and Africa.
Tahawul Tech
10 hours ago
- Business
- Tahawul Tech
Space42, Microsoft, and Esri sign MoU to enhance mapping capabilities across Africa
Abu Dhabi — Space42, the UAE-based global AI-powered SpaceTech company, part of technology group G42, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Microsoft and Esri to deliver high-resolution, scalable base maps across all 54 African countries, serving over 1.4 billion people. Known as the 'Map Africa Initiative,' the project will create the most comprehensive base map of the continent to date, addressing challenges in infrastructure, investment, and institutional gaps. The updated mapping system will catalyze economic development through increased access to intelligent solutions that support governments, businesses, and communities. The five-year collaboration aims to strengthen geospatial capabilities across Africa and the UAE, and provide precise and accessible data to national and regional stakeholders. The MoU was signed at Esri's 2025 User Conference. Hasan Al Hosani, CEO of Smart Solutions at Space42, said, 'Partnership is core to the UAE's DNA, and is central to how Space42 operates. This collaboration with Microsoft and Esri is more than technical; it's strategic. It advances Space42's business priorities, strengthens our role as a trusted partner to governments, and delivers meaningful benefits to communities across Africa. Accurate, high-quality mapping and the intelligence solutions built on it are essential for growth, resilience, and inclusive innovation. With reliable data, communities and economies prosper.' Jack Dangermond, President of Esri said, 'We are proud to support the Map Africa Initiative in partnership with Space42. Transforming satellite imagery into detailed, accurate base maps at continental scale requires advanced geospatial technology and professional production workflows. These same capabilities have supported similar national and regional mapping efforts around the world. With Map Africa, we are helping to establish a foundational resource that will drive infrastructure planning, economic growth, and sustainable development across the continent.' A Transformative Investment in Africa's Digital Future Africa's maps are fragmented, outdated, or inaccessible, leaving governments and businesses to make major decisions with inaccurate and incomplete data. The Map Africa Initiative seeks to change that by producing continent-wide geospatial data that is accurate, timely, and locally managed. The process itself is collaborative from start to finish, bringing together the complementary strengths of each organisation. Space42 will lead fundraising efforts and project management, in addition to providing satellite data through sovereign capacities and commercial partners. It will process data using AI-powered Digital Twin models to produce dynamic, use-specific outputs and lead the Research & Development roadmap for new AI models and automation of map production workflows. Esri will orchestrate base map production workflows with its GeoAI and remote sensing capabilities, while also supporting regional hubs to train local teams and build long-term capacity. Microsoft will provide the secure cloud infrastructure and AI framework through Azure to support data processing, sharing, and integration at scale. Enabling Economic Opportunity, Resilience, and Innovation The initiative is expected to unlock long-term value across multiple industries: Ports and logistics: Detailed terrain and infrastructure mapping will improve route planning, reduce inefficiencies, and support Africa's emergence as a global logistics hub. Renewable energy: Site selection models will support optimal solar and wind deployment, improving efficiency and return on investment. Security and disaster response: Governments will be better equipped to monitor borders, track natural resources, and coordinate emergency responses. Smart cities and digital economies: Accurate maps are foundational to urban planning, public services, and technology deployment. The data will be licensed to national governments, enabling ownership and long-term updating by National Mapping Agencies. Over time, the initiative will also support a new commercial ecosystem of African startups. The data will eventually be housed in G42 and Microsoft-managed data centers across the continent. Strategic positioning for Space42 For Space42, the initiative represents more than a single project. It deepens long-standing partnerships with Microsoft and Esri, expands Space42's presence in Africa, and opens new commercial opportunities in analytics, licensing, and infrastructure support. The Map Africa Initiative is a testament to Space42's position as the global partner of choice for governments seeking geospatial data at scale, serving as both a strategic proof point and a commercial gateway to new markets. Peng Xiao, Group Chief Executive Officer at G42, said, 'We believe intelligence is the foundation for societal progress, yet it remains out of reach for millions across the Global South. This partnership is a decisive step toward closing that gap. Together with our partners, we will deliver AI-powered insights that enable African nations to plan smarter, build better, and grow more sustainably and responsibly. From agricultural optimization and natural resource management to strengthening public services infrastructure and economic empowerment, this partnership will help turn data into development, and intelligence into impact.' 'G42's partnership with Microsoft represents a shared commitment to harnessing AI as a global force for good. Together, we are building the infrastructure and applications that will extend the benefits of intelligence to communities across the world, transforming lives through technology that is trusted, responsible, and inclusive.' The initiative further pushes the limits of how technological innovation can advance communities and unlock economic opportunities. Aligning with the UAE's Global Investment and Innovation Agenda The UAE is Africa's largest foreign investor, with $44 billion in capital deployed in 2024 alone, nearly matching the combined investments of the UK and China. As the UAE's national space champion, Space42 advances this agenda by exporting AI and geospatial capabilities that enable data-driven development. By expanding the UAE's space ecosystem and fostering knowledge transfer across industries, Space42's geospatial mapping capabilities play a crucial role in building a future-ready, innovation-driven economy in both the UAE and Africa. For African countries, the mapping capabilities enable smarter land use, improved disaster response, modern infrastructure planning, and the foundations for smart cities and digital economies. For the UAE, this strategic engagement opens high-growth markets, deepens diplomatic and commercial ties, and consolidates its role as a global leader in AI-enabled space solutions.
Zawya
11 hours ago
- Business
- Zawya
Space42, Microsoft, and Esri sign memorandum of understanding to enhance mapping capabilities across Africa
Over the next five years, the initiative will map 54 African countries and benefit over 1.4 billion people The detailed mapping will support economic growth across the continent Abu Dhabi, UAE – Space42 (ADX: SPACE42), the UAE-based global AI-powered SpaceTech company, part of technology group G42, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Microsoft and Esri to deliver high-resolution, scalable base maps across all 54 African countries, serving over 1.4 billion people. Known as the 'Map Africa Initiative,' the project will create the most comprehensive base map of the continent to date, addressing challenges in infrastructure, investment, and institutional gaps. The updated mapping system will catalyze economic development through increased access to intelligent solutions that support governments, businesses, and communities. The five-year collaboration aims to strengthen geospatial capabilities across Africa and the UAE, and provide precise and accessible data to national and regional stakeholders. The MoU was signed at Esri's 2025 User Conference. Hasan Al Hosani, CEO of Smart Solutions at Space42, said, 'Partnership is core to the UAE's DNA, and is central to how Space42 operates. This collaboration with Microsoft and Esri is more than technical; it's strategic. It advances Space42's business priorities, strengthens our role as a trusted partner to governments, and delivers meaningful benefits to communities across Africa. Accurate, high-quality mapping and the intelligence solutions built on it are essential for growth, resilience, and inclusive innovation. With reliable data, communities and economies prosper.' Jack Dangermond, President of Esri said,"We are proud to support the Map Africa Initiative in partnership with Space42. Transforming satellite imagery into detailed, accurate base maps at continental scale requires advanced geospatial technology and professional production workflows. These same capabilities have supported similar national and regional mapping efforts around the world. With Map Africa, we are helping to establish a foundational resource that will drive infrastructure planning, economic growth, and sustainable development across the continent." A Transformative Investment in Africa's Digital Future Africa's maps are fragmented, outdated, or inaccessible, leaving governments and businesses to make major decisions with inaccurate and incomplete data. The Map Africa Initiative seeks to change that by producing continent-wide geospatial data that is accurate, timely, and locally managed. The process itself is collaborative from start to finish, bringing together the complementary strengths of each organization. Space42 will lead fundraising efforts and project management, in addition to providing satellite data through sovereign capacities and commercial partners. It will process data using AI-powered Digital Twin models to produce dynamic, use-specific outputs and lead the Research & Development roadmap for new AI models and automation of map production workflows. Esri will orchestrate base map production workflows with its GeoAI and remote sensing capabilities, while also supporting regional hubs to train local teams and build long-term capacity. Microsoft will provide the secure cloud infrastructure and AI framework through Azure to support data processing, sharing, and integration at scale. Enabling Economic Opportunity, Resilience, and Innovation The initiative is expected to unlock long-term value across multiple industries: Ports and logistics: Detailed terrain and infrastructure mapping will improve route planning, reduce inefficiencies, and support Africa's emergence as a global logistics hub. Renewable energy: Site selection models will support optimal solar and wind deployment, improving efficiency and return on investment. Security and disaster response: Governments will be better equipped to monitor borders, track natural resources, and coordinate emergency responses. Smart cities and digital economies: Accurate maps are foundational to urban planning, public services, and technology deployment. The data will be licensed to national governments, enabling ownership and long-term updating by National Mapping Agencies. Over time, the initiative will also support a new commercial ecosystem of African startups. The data will eventually be housed in G42 and Microsoft-managed data centers across the continent. Strategic positioning for Space42 For Space42, the initiative represents more than a single project. It deepens long-standing partnerships with Microsoft and Esri, expands Space42's presence in Africa, and opens new commercial opportunities in analytics, licensing, and infrastructure support. The Map Africa Initiative is a testament to Space42's position as the global partner of choice for governments seeking geospatial data at scale, serving as both a strategic proof point and a commercial gateway to new markets. Peng Xiao, Group Chief Executive Officer at G42, said, 'We believe intelligence is the foundation for societal progress, yet it remains out of reach for millions across the Global South. This partnership is a decisive step toward closing that gap. Together with our partners, we will deliver AI-powered insights that enable African nations to plan smarter, build better, and grow more sustainably and responsibly. From agricultural optimization and natural resource management to strengthening public services infrastructure and economic empowerment, this partnership will help turn data into development, and intelligence into impact.' 'G42's partnership with Microsoft represents a shared commitment to harnessing AI as a global force for good. Together, we are building the infrastructure and applications that will extend the benefits of intelligence to communities across the world, transforming lives through technology that is trusted, responsible, and inclusive.' The initiative further pushes the limits of how technological innovation can advance communities and unlock economic opportunities. Aligning with the UAE's Global Investment and Innovation Agenda The UAE is Africa's largest foreign investor, with $44 billion in capital deployed in 2024 alone, nearly matching the combined investments of the UK and China. As the UAE's national space champion, Space42 advances this agenda by exporting AI and geospatial capabilities that enable data-driven development. By expanding the UAE's space ecosystem and fostering knowledge transfer across industries, Space42's geospatial mapping capabilities play a crucial role in building a future-ready, innovation-driven economy in both the UAE and Africa. For African countries, the mapping capabilities enable smarter land use, improved disaster response, modern infrastructure planning, and the foundations for smart cities and digital economies. For the UAE, this strategic engagement opens high-growth markets, deepens diplomatic and commercial ties, and consolidates its role as a global leader in AI-enabled space solutions. About Space42 Space42 (ADX: SPACE42) is a UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company that integrates satellite communications, geospatial analytics and artificial intelligence capabilities to enlighten the Earth from space. Formed in 2024 by the successful merger of Bayanat and Yahsat, Space42's global reach allows it to address the rapidly evolving needs of its customers in governments, enterprises, and communities. Space42 comprises two business units: Space Services and Smart Solutions. Space Services focuses on upstream satellite operations for both fixed and mobile satellite services. Smart Solutions integrates geospatial data acquisition and processing with AI to inform decision-making, enhance situational awareness, and improve operational efficiency. Major shareholders include G42, Mubadala, and IHC. For more information, visit: follow us on X: @space42ai Legal Notice and Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking information This announcement may include forward-looking statements, which are based on current expectations and projections about future events. These statements may include, without limitation, words such as "expect", "will", "looking ahead" and any other words and terms of similar meaning. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions about the Company and its subsidiaries and its investments and speak only as of the date of this announcement. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions of future events and information currently available to the Company which may not prove to be accurate, and the Company does not accept any responsibility for the accuracy or fairness thereof and expressly disclaims any obligation to update any such forward looking statement. No representation or warranty is made that any forward-looking statement will come to pass. You are therefore cautioned not to place any undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Neither this announcement nor anything contained herein constitutes a financial promotion, or an invitation or inducement to acquire or sell securities in any jurisdiction.
Al Etihad
12 hours ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
Space42, Microsoft, and Esri sign agreement supporting Map Africa Initiative, reinforcing UAE leadership in AI-enabled space solutions
29 July 2025 15:53 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Space42, a UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company, has signed an agreement with Microsoft and Esri at the latter's 2025 User Conference to deliver high-resolution, scalable base maps across all 54 African countries, serving over 1.4 billion as the Map Africa Initiative, the project will create the most comprehensive base map of the continent to date, addressing challenges in infrastructure, investment, and institutional updated mapping system will catalyse economic development through increased access to intelligent solutions that support governments, businesses, and communities. The five-year collaboration aims to strengthen geospatial capabilities across Africa and the UAE, providing precise and accessible data to national and regional of Smart Solutions at Space42, Hasan Al Hosani, said, 'Partnership is core to the UAE's DNA, and is central to how Space42 operates. This collaboration with Microsoft and Esri is more than technical; it's strategic. It advances Space42's business priorities, strengthens our role as a trusted partner to governments, and delivers meaningful benefits to communities across Africa. Accurate, high-quality mapping and the intelligence solutions built on it are essential for growth, resilience, and inclusive innovation. With reliable data, communities and economies prosper.'President of Esri, Jack Dangermond, said, "We are proud to support the Map Africa Initiative in partnership with Space42. Transforming satellite imagery into detailed, accurate base maps at a continental scale requires advanced geospatial technology and professional production workflows. These same capabilities have supported similar national and regional mapping efforts around the world. With Map Africa, we are helping to establish a foundational resource that will drive infrastructure planning, economic growth, and sustainable development across the continent.'Group Chief Executive Officer at G42, Peng Xiao, said, 'We believe intelligence is the foundation for societal progress, yet it remains out of reach for millions across the Global South. This partnership is a decisive step toward closing that gap. Together with our partners, we will deliver AI-powered insights that enable African nations to plan smarter, build better, and grow more sustainably and responsibly. From agricultural optimisation and natural resource management to strengthening public services infrastructure and economic empowerment, this partnership will help turn data into development, and intelligence into impact.'G42's partnership with Microsoft represents a shared commitment to harnessing AI as a global force for good. Together, we are building the infrastructure and applications that will extend the benefits of intelligence to communities across the world, transforming lives through technology that is trusted, responsible, and inclusive.'Maps of Africa are fragmented, outdated, or inaccessible, leaving governments and businesses to make major decisions with inaccurate and incomplete Map Africa Initiative seeks to change that by producing continent-wide geospatial data that is accurate, timely, and locally process itself is collaborative from start to finish, bringing together the complementary strengths of each organisation. Space42 will lead fundraising efforts and project management, in addition to providing satellite data through sovereign capacities and commercial partners. It will process data using AI-powered Digital Twin models to produce dynamic, use-specific outputs and lead the Research & Development roadmap for new AI models and automation of map production will orchestrate base map production workflows with its GeoAI and remote sensing capabilities, while also supporting regional hubs to train local teams and build long-term capacity. Microsoft will provide the secure cloud infrastructure and AI framework through Azure to support data processing, sharing, and integration at initiative is expected to unlock long-term value across multiple industries. Ports and logistics: Detailed terrain and infrastructure mapping will improve route planning, reduce inefficiencies, and support Africa's emergence as a global logistics hub. Renewable energy: Site selection models will support optimal solar and wind deployment, improving efficiency and return on investment. Security and disaster response: Governments will be better equipped to monitor borders, track natural resources, and coordinate emergency responses. Smart cities and digital economies: Accurate maps are foundational to urban planning, public services, and technology data will be licensed to national governments, enabling ownership and long-term updating by National Mapping time, the initiative will also support a new commercial ecosystem of African startups. The data will eventually be housed in G42 and Microsoft-managed data centres across the Space42, the initiative deepens long-standing partnerships with Microsoft and Esri, expands Space42's presence in Africa, and opens new commercial opportunities in analytics, licensing, and infrastructure support. The Map Africa Initiative reflects Space42's position as the global partner of choice for governments seeking geospatial data at scale, serving as both a strategic proof point and a commercial gateway to new UAE is Africa's largest foreign investor, with US$44 billion in capital deployed in 2024 alone, nearly matching the combined investments of the UK and China. As the UAE's national space champion, Space42 advances this agenda by exporting AI and geospatial capabilities that enable data-driven expanding the UAE's space ecosystem and fostering knowledge transfer across industries, Space42's geospatial mapping capabilities play a crucial role in building a future-ready, innovation-driven economy in both the UAE and Africa. For African countries, the mapping capabilities enable smarter land use, improved disaster response, modern infrastructure planning, and the foundations for smart cities and digital economies. For the UAE, this strategic engagement opens high-growth markets, deepens diplomatic and commercial ties, and consolidates its role as a global leader in AI-enabled space solutions.
National Post
13 hours ago
- Business
- National Post
Esri, Microsoft, and Space42 Join to Launch "Map Africa Initiative"
Article content REDLANDS, Calif. — Esri, the global leader in location intelligence, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Space42 and Microsoft to support the Map Africa Initiative. The effort is a five-year endeavor to produce the most comprehensive basemap of Africa to date. The initiative will deliver high-resolution, scalable geospatial data across all 54 African countries with the goal to benefit more than 1.4 billion people. Article content Article content Article content Many of Africa's official maps are fragmented, outdated, or hard to access, leaving governments and businesses to make major decisions with inaccurate or incomplete data. This has led to challenges in infrastructure development, as well as investment and institutional gaps. This joint initiative between Esri, Space42, and Microsoft was formalized in early July at the 2025 Esri User Conference in San Diego, California. The collaboration aims to increase institutional capacity for African nations by providing locally managed geospatial data and enabling smarter decision-making for governments, businesses, and communities. Article content 'We are proud to support the Map Africa Initiative in partnership with Space42,' said Jack Dangermond, Esri president. 'Transforming satellite imagery into detailed, accurate base maps at continental scale requires advanced geospatial technology and professional production workflows. These same capabilities have supported similar national and regional mapping efforts around the world. With Map Africa, we are helping to establish a foundational resource that will drive infrastructure planning, economic growth, and sustainable development across the continent.' Article content Space42, a UAE-based AI and space technology company, will lead fundraising efforts and project management, in addition to providing satellite data. Esri will orchestrate basemap production workflows with its GeoAI and remote sensing capabilities, while also supporting regional hubs to train local teams and build long-term capacity. Microsoft will provide the secure cloud infrastructure and AI framework through Azure to support data processing, sharing, and integration at scale. Article content 'Partnership is core to the UAE's DNA and is central to how Space42 operates,' said Hasan Al Hosani, CEO of Smart Solutions at Space42. 'This collaboration with Microsoft and Esri is more than technical; it's strategic. It advances Space42's business priorities, strengthens our role as a trusted partner to governments, and delivers meaningful benefits to communities across Africa. Accurate, high-quality mapping and the intelligence solutions built on it are essential for growth, resilience, and inclusive innovation. With reliable data, communities and economies prosper.' The initiative is expected to unlock long-term value across multiple sectors, including: Article content Article content Ports and logistics: Enhanced terrain and infrastructure mapping will improve route planning and reduce inefficiencies. Renewable energy: Site selection models will optimize solar and wind deployment. Security and disaster response: Governments will gain tools to monitor borders, manage resources, and coordinate emergency responses. Smart cities and digital economies: Accurate maps will support urban planning, public services, and technology deployment. Article content Map Africa data will be licensed to national governments, enabling ownership and long-term updating by National Mapping Agencies. Over time, the initiative will also support a new commercial ecosystem of African startups. The data will eventually be housed in G42 and Microsoft-managed data centers across the continent. Article content About Esri Article content Esri, the global market leader in geographic information system (GIS) software, location intelligence, and mapping, helps customers unlock the full potential of data to improve operational and business results. Founded in 1969 in Redlands, California, USA, Esri software is deployed in hundreds of thousands of organizations globally, including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, nonprofit institutions, and universities. Esri has regional offices, international distributors, and partners providing local support in over 100 countries on six continents. With its pioneering commitment to geospatial technology and analytics, Esri engineers the most innovative solutions that leverage a geographic approach to solving some of the world's most complex problems by placing them in the crucial context of location. Visit us at Article content Copyright © 2025 Esri. All rights reserved. Esri, the Esri globe logo, ArcGIS, The Science of Where, and @ are trademarks, service marks, or registered marks of Esri in the United States, the European Community, or certain other jurisdictions. Other companies and products or services mentioned herein may be trademarks, service marks, or registered marks of their respective mark owners. Article content About Space42 Article content Space42 (ADX: SPACE42) is a UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company that integrates satellite communications, geospatial analytics and artificial intelligence capabilities to enlighten the Earth from space. Formed in 2024 by the successful merger of Bayanat and Yahsat, Space42's global reach allows it to address the rapidly evolving needs of its customers in governments, enterprises, and communities. Space42 comprises two business units: Space Services and Smart Solutions. Space Services focuses on upstream satellite operations for both fixed and mobile satellite services. Smart Solutions integrates geospatial data acquisition and processing with AI to inform decision-making, enhance situational awareness, and improve operational efficiency. Major shareholders include G42, Mubadala, and IHC. Article content Article content Article content Article content Contacts
