The government has initiated the development of a student exchange program with Japan specifically for Kenyan students specializing in space training.
This follows a series of meetings held by Brigadier Hillary Kipkosgey, the Acting Director General of the Kenya Space Agency (KSA), Kenya and representatives of the University of Tsukuba which explored potential areas of partnership for the program.
On Friday, Brigadier Kipkosgey held a series of meetings with Professor Kyosuke Yamamoto and Professor Toshihiro Kameda from the University of Tsukuba, Japan which revolved around collaboration for Kenya to build its satellites and small rockets.
According to KSA, the project is expected to foster knowledge transfer and capacity building in space science and technology between the two countries.
Besides seeking to establish a student exchange programme, the Kenyan government also sought to leverage the partnership with the view of tapping the potential of satellites in disaster management.
To this end, the Kenyan delegation also announced the possibility of a a possible collaboration after positive talks with Global Water Sustainability Initiative (GEOGloWS) representatives.
“In addition, applying GEOGLOWS Streamflow Services for flood forecasting was a key topic, highlighting the practical applications of space technology in disaster preparedness and risk reduction in Kenya,” the Kenyan space agency said after the meetings.
GEOGLoWS specifically highlighted the need for the country to undertake the usage of space technology for earth observance and forecasting.
This move comes after President William Ruto in December 2023 announced that the government was committed to instituting policies to advance space technology in the country.
While delivering his remarks, President Ruto noted that the move would elevate Kenya's status on a global scale.
The Head of State pointed out that space technology advancement in the country would be achieved through funding and partnership from investors from the US.
Ruto also discussed the scaling of the Konza Technopolis as a hub for the growth of space technologies in the country.
