Space Dialogue
Conversations with the people building Africa's space ecosystem.
What Space Dialogue is
Space Dialogue is our webinar series bringing together researchers, entrepreneurs, and policymakers shaping the African space ecosystem. Every session is recorded and freely available on YouTube.
Sessions
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Redefining Pan-Africanism for Africa's Space Future
CS.Dr. William Kiema, PMAK Law Africa; Thando Mathe, United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research
We're bringing together two brilliant minds to tackle one of the most important questions facing our continent's space future and we want you in the room. Law. Policy. Technology. Pan-Africanism. All in one session.
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Understanding Ethiopia's Space Ecosystem
Kirubel Menber Alemu, ESSS; Beza Tesfaye Zewdie, Panafric Space Technologies; Tensae Ali, CubeSpace ADCS; Dr. Yeshurun Alemayehu Adde, Ethiopian Space Science & Geospatial Institute (SSGI)
We're bringing together some of Africa's brightest space minds for our Special Space Dialogue — April Edition, in collaboration with the Ethiopian Space Science Society (ESSS). Ethiopia is making bold moves in the African space economy, and this conversation will tell you exactly how.
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Giving and Gaining Within Africa's Space Sector
Charlynne Jepkosgei, Women in Space Kenya
We invite you to join Nelly-helen and Charlynne as they reflect on the women who have inspired them, the journeys that brought them into the field, and the many ways women are supporting and being supported by others along the way.
Previous sessions
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Understanding South Africa's Space Ecosystem
Alana Kruger, NexAfrica; Thongwane Namane, SCS Aerospace Group; Daniel Matsapola, SANSA Earth Observation; Leehandi de Witt Kearney, CubeSpace ADCS; Carla Sharpe Mitchell, Africa2Moon
South Africa’s space ecosystem takes centre stage in the February edition of our webinar series. This session brings together practitioners from government and industry research to discuss what has positioned South Africa as one of Africa’s leading space economies — from national priorities and industry growth to partnerships shaping the sector’s future.
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Where Is The Data When We Need It?
Omowonuola Akintola, Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team
This one-on-one conversation with Omowonuola Akintola will examine the current state of using Earth Observation (EO) data for early warning and disaster monitoring across Africa Omowonuola is a Geospatial and Data Specialist committed to using open geospatial data and technology to make communities visible and enable data-driven development. Her work focuses on improving data availability across Africa to support local decision-making and sustainable growth. This topic remains crucial given how access to EO data directly affects the continent’s ability to respond to floods, droughts, and other natural hazards.
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Reimagining Africa's Future in Space II: Living in Space?
Tobi Thomas, Space Redi; David Kasibante, Space Law and Policy Specialist; Fama Jallow, Aerospace Engineer
Humanity’s desire to live beyond Earth has long inspired imagination and found expression in countless works of literature and science. But is this vision of life beyond our planet one that Africans collectively or individually share? This session brings together young African space professionals to reflect on the ethical, cultural, and governance questions surrounding human life beyond Earth, and how Africa’s space community can help shape humanity’s shared future.
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Developing Africa's Space Talent: Skills, Networks & Opportunities
Wairimu Mwangi, Aerospace Engineer; Alvin Michael Mulumba, Space Engineer and Educator
Does Africa have all the skills and capacity it needs to contribute meaningfully to the global space industry? Is there a skills gap holding back the continent’s potential? And how can young professionals position themselves to succeed in this fast-growing sector?
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Discussing Space in the Face of Hunger
Iradat Oladejo, Food Scientist; Mpho Sadiki, Digital Earth Africa; Esther Maina, Kenya Space Agency; Maheen Parbhoo, Africa Earth Observation Challenge
This month, African experts will come together to discuss a topic at the very heart of any thriving society – food security. At first glance, one might ask: Aren't conversations on space too ambitious for Africa during an ongoing hunger crises? Join us as we connect the dots between space and food security, showing how EO innovation can help secure Africa’s future. We are proud to host this webinar in partnership with, and ahead of the Africa Earth Observation Challenge.
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Understanding Kenya's Space Ecosystem
Johnmark Ochieng, Digital Earth Africa; Bram Nakholi, Space Society Kenya; Charlynne Jepkosgei, Women in Space Kenya; Kimani Wa Nyoike, LEO Sky Africa
This month, we are excited to host a special edition in partnership with Space Society of Kenya to discuss ''Innovation from the Ground Up: Understanding Kenya’s Space Ecosystem.'' Join us for an insightful webinar exploring the key roles of the private sector and non-profits in shaping Kenya’s space industry and the innovations driving its future.
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Redefining Pan-Africanism for Africa's Space Aspirations
Dr. Samuel Oyewole, University of Pretoria; Maximilien Berthet, University of Tokyo; Arnold Agaba, Institute of Air and Space Law; Shadrach Kundi, African Centre for International Affairs
Join an incredible panel of academics as we reflect on Pan-African ideals and explore how regional cooperation can drive Africa’s space ambitions forward.
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Africans in Orbit: Does it Matter?
Olayode Abdurasaq, Space Affairs Analyst; Wanjiku Kanjumba, Vicillion
The dialogue centres on the significance of human spaceflight for Africa's space future and whether African participation in orbit has wider meaning beyond symbolism.
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Accelerating Women's Participation in Africa's Space Sector
Philippa Udi, National Space Research & Development Agency (NASRDA); Marie Makuate, Geospatial Girls and Kids; Lily Asongfac, The Aerospace Baby Project
In celebration of #internationalwomensday, this month’s webinar focused on accelerating women's participation in Africa’s space sector. Our discussion highlighted the ongoing efforts to promote gender inclusivity and explore practical steps to create a more equitable industry. Our speakers will share experience on the work they are doing to increase women's representation in the sector, and actionable strategies to move beyond paper aspirations toward real change.
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Building Africa's Space Identity
Dr. Samuel Oyewole, University of Pretoria; Thando Mathe, Space Policy Analyst and Earth Observation Consultant
This month, we’re have a vital conversation on ‘Building an African Space Identity’. We will discuss potential ways Africa can carve out a formidable space identity,commercially, politically, and the contributions of academic research in shaping and understanding this vision.
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Reimagining Africa's Future in Outer Space
Susan Murabana, The Travelling Telescope; Charles Nzeussi , IAF Access Chair - Africa; Abimbola Asekun, Future Perspectives; Husseinat Etti-Balogun, Space Generation Advisory Council
We’re excited to resume our Space Dialogue Sessions with Nelly-helen Ebruka. We kick off 2025 with a thought-provoking conversation on "Reimagining Africa's Future in Space".
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Non Profits and the African Space Sector
Ernest Teye Matey, African Space Station Project; Ilia-Daniel Gashinbaki, Africa Space Foundation; Daniel Damilola Obiokeke, Spacebar Africa
We are glad to discuss how they are contributing to shaping the future of space in Africa. The conversation will also cover opportunities available for young individuals, the challenges non-profits face, and the way forward for the future.
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Leading Space Economies in the African Space Industry: Egypt in Focus
Dr. Ayman Ahmed, Egyptian Space Agency
This month's session will: 1. Discuss the research and advancements spearheaded by the Egyptian Space Agency. 2. Examine opportunities for young professionals in space research and capacity development in Egypt. 3. Highlight Egypt's role in fostering African partnerships and collaborations within the space sector.
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Down to Earth: Bridging Space and Society through Effective Communication
Johnmark Ochieng, Kenya Space Agency
This month's session will: 1. Discuss strategies on how to effectively communicate space applications and benefits in a relatable manner. 2. Provide practical strategies for young students and professionals to craft compelling elevator pitches and network effectively at space conferences and events. 3. Inspire a new generation of African space communicators to reshape public narratives around space technology and its relevance on the continent.
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Dream, Dare Do: Handling Career Difficulties in the Space Industry 2
Dr. Adriana Marais
The space sector in Africa presents unique difficulties, but it also offers incredible opportunities for innovation and growth. Through the power of words and storytelling, we aim to inspire and motivate our participants with this discussion.
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Dream, Dare Do: Handling Career Difficulties in the Space Industry
Dr. Dragos Bratasanu
The space sector in Africa presents unique difficulties, but it also offers incredible opportunities for innovation and growth. Through the power of words and storytelling, we aim to inspire and motivate our participants with this discussion.
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The Crucial Role of Education in Advancing Africa's Space Program
Samuel Nyangi, Leo Sky Africa
Join Nelly-helen Neji Ebruka in conversation with Samuel Nyangi discussing the crucial role of education in advancing Africa's Space Program.
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The Effect of International Cooperation and Development Assistance on Africa's Space Program
Icho Kealotswe-Matlou, Space Lawyer
Join Nelly-helen Neji Ebruka in conversation with Icho Kealotswe-Matlou discussing the effect of international cooperation and development assistance on Africa's Space Program
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Entrepreneurship as a Growth Accelerator for Africa's Space Program
Dr. Ifriky Tadadjeu, Nanosatellite Mission Design
Entrepreneurship is essential to increase market competition and productivity in the space industry. Space entrepreneurship must thrive on the continent if the African space program is to have a prosperous future.
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The Future of Human Spaceflight in Africa
Abraham Akinwale, Space Generation Advisory Council
An in-depth conversation about Human Spaceflight, with Abraham Akinwale!
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Opportunities in the African Space Industry
Charles Nzeussi, Space Generation Advisory Council; Salvation Peter, SSEIA; Alimamy Conteh, Space Generation Advisory Council
Find out about the latest events and opportunities in the space industry that you can take part in!
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Careers in the African Space Industry III
Eldrige de Melo, Space Generation Advisory Council; Moataz AbdelAzim, Moon Village Association; Tensae Ali, Space Generation Advisory Council
Listen and learn from professionals currently working in the African space industry! Hear about how they got involved in space, what they currently do, and find out how you can participate yourself.
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Careers in the African Space Industry II
Cyhana Williams, African Women in GIS; Kingsley Ahenkora-Duodu, Space Generation Advisory Council; Iliass Tanouti, Space Generation Advisory Council
Listen and learn from professionals currently working in the African space industry! Hear about how they got involved in space, what they currently do, and find out how you can participate yourself.
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Careers in the African Space Industry
Ana-Mia Louw, Simera Sense; Marco Romero, GGPEN; Dr. Kenneth Mubea, Digital Earth Africa; Michael-Sam Vidza Jr, GIS Specialist
Listen and learn from professionals currently working in the African space industry! Hear about how they got involved in space, what they currently do, and find out how you can participate yourself.