In a notable advancement for Namibia’s space and technology landscape, the country has officially received a ground station for receiving satellite data from China. This groundbreaking facility, located at the Telecom Earth Station near Windhoek, will empower Namibia to access and analyse real-time satellite data across several critical sectors, including agriculture, disaster management, and environmental monitoring.
The official handover of the station took place on Thursday, enhancing Namibia’s capabilities in space technology. The event featured Chinese Ambassador Zhao Weiping and was overseen by Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare, who filled in for President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah during the ceremony.
Ngurare highlighted the momentous nature of this development, reading a statement from the president that emphasised its importance for science, technology, and innovation as foundational elements for national growth. The handover signifies a pivotal step towards achieving Namibia’s development goals and long-term industrialisation strategy.
The president underscored the necessity for all ministries and agencies to leverage this state-of-the-art infrastructure to maximise its benefits for the nation. This event arrives at a critical juncture for Namibia as it seeks to establish itself as a key player in space observation and technology.
“Namibia is poised to leverage its clear skies and unique geographic position, positioning itself as a leading global hub for space observation,” Nandi-Ndaitwah stated.
In 2025, the cabinet laid the groundwork for the Space Science and Technology Bill, emphasising the country’s commitment to furthering its space agenda. Ambassador Weiping noted that the handover illustrates China’s dedication to supporting African nations in advancing their scientific and technological capabilities. He also mentioned that the station will be fully operated by Namibians, with training provided by China to ensure the facility functions effectively.