Faith Nyasuguta
During a press conference in Milan, Adolfo Urso, Italy’s Minister of Enterprise and Made in Italy, announced a significant partnership with Kenya on a space project. This announcement came on the eve of the 75th International Astronautical Congress (IAC), highlighting the collaboration between the two nations in the field of space exploration.
The project, which had been discussed earlier in the month during Urso’s visit to Kenya, aims to utilize the Luigi Broglio Space Centre in Malindi, Kenya, for launching earth observation satellites.
The Luigi Broglio Space Centre, managed by the Italian Space Agency (ASI), has a rich history of space activities. The center will now be repurposed to launch low-orbit microsatellites for earth observation, focusing on climate change phenomena such as desertification. This initiative is part of Italy’s broader Mattei Plan, a development program designed to support African countries.
The relaunch of the space center is a shared goal for both the Italian and Kenyan governments, aiming to bolster Kenya’s space sector and provide a more affordable and convenient option for launching satellites domestically.
The partnership also includes a strong educational component. The space center will be used to train Kenyan students, industry experts, and scientists, building local capacity and expertise in space technology. This training is expected to prepare Africa for future space exploration endeavors and enhance the continent’s capabilities in earth observation and satellite technology.
The announcement of this partnership highlights the importance of international collaboration in advancing space technology and addressing global challenges such as climate change. By leveraging the strategic location of the Luigi Broglio Space Centre near the equator, the project aims to maximize the efficiency of satellite launches.
Equatorial locations are ideal for launching rockets due to their rotational velocity, which reduces the energy and fuel required for launches, allowing more mass to be sent into orbit while saving on costs.
The 75th International Astronautical Congress, taking place in Milan from October 14 to 18, 2024, will bring together over 8,000 specialists from business, research, and institutions. This event provides a platform for discussing the latest advancements in space technology and fostering international cooperation.
The partnership between Italy and Kenya will be a key highlight of the congress, showcasing the potential of collaborative efforts in space exploration.
Earlier in the month, during a visit to the Luigi Broglio Space Centre, Adolfo Urso and Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Defense, Soipan Tuya, co-chaired the 2nd Council of Ministers Meeting. They discussed expanding the implementation of the bilateral agreement between Kenya and Italy regarding the space center.
The visit also included the inauguration of the Luigi Broglio Space Museum, one of the first of its kind in Africa, further emphasizing the historical significance and future potential of the space center.
This partnership marks a new chapter in the long-standing relationship between Italy and Kenya in the field of space exploration. By combining their resources and expertise, the two nations aim to contribute to global efforts in monitoring and addressing climate change, while also fostering technological advancement and capacity building in Africa.
The relaunch of the Luigi Broglio Space Centre is expected to take place in a few years, setting the stage for a new era of space activities in Kenya and beyond.
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