Namibia has taken a major step in its push to build a modern space ecosystem after officially receiving the China-Aided Satellite Ground Data Receiving Station (SGDRS). The handover, completed on 20 November 2025, gives the Southern African nation full control of a facility designed to strengthen its satellite data capabilities across multiple sectors.
The ceremony, attended by senior officials from Namibia’s Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture (MEIYSAC) and China’s Embassy in Windhoek, marked the signing of the Handover and Takeover Certificate. The documents were signed by Dr. Lisho Mundia, Deputy Executive Director for Higher Education at MEIYSAC, and China’s Ambassador Zhao Weiping, confirming the completion of Phase 1 of a landmark bilateral project launched in 2023.
The SGDRS includes a satellite tracking and data receiving station, a fully equipped data-processing system, and extensive training for Namibian technicians. The facility immediately enhances Namibia’s capacity to receive, analyse and use satellite imagery for national development priorities.
Authorities say the station will become a strategic tool for natural resource monitoring, agricultural planning, climate adaptation, disaster-risk reduction and anti-poaching operations. It will also serve ministries, research institutions and universities across the country, supporting Namibia’s long-term goal of developing homegrown expertise in space science and remote sensing.
The handover comes at a time when Namibia is accelerating its space policy reforms. In August, the government approved the drafting of a Space Science and Technology Bill to provide a legal and regulatory framework for the growing sector. Earlier, in March 2024, the National Commission for Research, Science, and Technology reconstituted the National Space Science Council, bringing together experts in astronomy, engineering, ICT, law and GIS to guide the nation’s space agenda until 2027.
The SGDRS reinforces Namibia’s ambition to grow its footprint in the global space community, aligning satellite technology with broader economic and environmental goals. Officials say the new station is expected to become a cornerstone of the country’s emerging space economy.
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