“Space technology and application services are valued at $7.37 billion and the creation of the African Space Agency brings hope that Africa will synergize her efforts to count and make a difference in the global space arena” said Dr. Tidiane Ouattara, the African Union’s Space Science Expert and GMES & Africa Support Program Coordinator, during Expo 2020 Dubai’s Space Week.

The week’s events tackled topics such as the UAE’s vision for space; how space exploration is employed as a catalyst for good back on earth; whilst also unpacking the international co-operation through new coalitions and partnerships within the space sector, ushering in less-represented nations. The week also elevated to the spotlight, vital contributions made by women in the exploration of space, as well as studying sustainability in space amongst the many star gazing sessions.

Dr. Ouattara was amongst his peers, leading minds of industry and explorers with an innovative eye, gathered to present a variety of content, engaging on probing discussions and more. They examined the  benefits, employed solutions and the identified challenges in the pursuit of exploring beyond the  planet’s orbit.

The African Union (AU) acknowledges and believes that the use of space-based products and services to provide critical spatial information for decision-making purposes, would contribute to realizing the AU Africa outer space strategy as envisioned by Agenda 2063.

“Active participation in the development of space-related applications and services will enable the continent to address its development challenges, helping meet the objectives of Agenda 2063, and make significant contributions towards the implementation of the Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa (STISA)” said Dr. Mahama Ouedraogo, Director of the Department of Education, Science, Technology & Innovation (ESTI) of the African Union Commission.

STISA-2024 places science, technology and innovation at the epicentre of Africa's socio-economic development and growth.

True to the theme of Expo 2020, Connecting Minds and Creating the Future, space marvels of outer space research and exploration led to an inspiring display of innovative science in the quest for a better understanding of how the solar system impacts life on earth.

The United Arab Emirates’ Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director-General of Expo 2020 Dubai, Reem Al Hashimy said "at Expo 2020 Dubai, we join more than 60 nations in the exploration of this common goal and this partnership will ensure that the gains we achieve are shared globally. A safe, productive and responsible exploration of space is a growing priority for all the humanity. Nations large and small, economies developed and emerging are today taking their first strides into space, hoping that what we learn will positively impact our lives on the Earth and beyond"..

An African expert team, led by Dr. Mahama Ouedraogo, participated during space week, representing the Education, Science, Tech & Innovation Department as part of the department’s strategic objective contributes to human capital development in Africa through the development of education, science, technology and innovation. The AU team formed part of the core conversations on unlocking new horizons as the human race continues to journey into the great unknown.

The African Union Commission delegation of space experts also lent their expertise to the 72nd International Astronautical Congress (IAC), a gathering of the global space community, astronauts, policy makers, leaders, and decision makers, to showcase advanced technology, give a glimpse of new development frontiers and plan for the future of space for the benefit of all humankind.

“Africa can assume authority of the many new opportunities offered by its geographic advantages, and become a global space player, and the activities of this week have amplified and communicated this message to the world” Dr. Tidiane Ouattara said at the conclusion of the week at Expo 2020.

The public, media and all other interested parties can keep up-to-date with the latest out of Dubai as well as get all the necessary information on African Union activities or events by visiting the official AU at Expo 2020 website: https://africaexpo2020dubai.au.int/en

For further information please contact:

Mr. Lunga Kupiso, Public Relations & Media Officer - AU at Expo 2020 | Information and Communication Directorate | African Union Commission
Tel: +251 115 517 700 | E-mail: auexpomedia@africa-union.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Ms. Faith Adhiambo, Media & Communications Coordinator - AU at Expo 2020 | Information and Communication Directorate | African Union Commission
Tel: +251 115 517 700 | E-mail: ochiengj@african-union.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Information and Communication Directorate, African Union Commission I E-mail: DIC@africa-union.org
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