A Thembeni scientist and author is helping shape South Africa’s climate response through a key national role.
Dr Thabani Mazibuko has been appointed co-chairperson of the Climate Change Community of Practice under the National Earth Observations and Space Secretariat (NEOSS).
The appointment places Mazibuko among leaders helping guide how South Africa uses Earth observation data, including satellite information, to address challenges such as climate change, disaster response and planning.
NEOSS, supported by the Department of Science and Innovation and hosted by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, coordinates the use of data across government, researchers and industry to improve decision-making.
“I am deeply honoured and sincerely grateful for the opportunity to serve. Each of my experiences has strengthened my commitment to using space science and Earth observation to address global challenges,” said Mazibuko.
He said his work as founder of the KZN Disaster Early Warning and Response System has shown him the importance of timely data in protecting lives and livelihoods.
Mazibuko’s journey began in rural Ulundi, where he built models of rockets and planets using clay and cow dung. His passion later grew after visiting a science museum in India.
Today, he holds a doctorate in space technology for sustainable tourism development and is the founder of the South African Space Technology for Sustainable Development Foundation.
He is also the author of two space science books, including Life Beyond the Kármán Line: Outer Space, which explores major projects such as the James Webb and Hubble telescopes, as well as South Africa’s role in the Square Kilometre Array.
Mazibuko said he is committed to strengthening climate resilience, early warning systems and co-operation through his new role.
“I look forward to working to ensure that science and innovation translate into real-world solutions,” he said.
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