The Government of Ghana has given the green light to a comprehensive national space policy aimed at fostering sustainable development through space science and technology.
This milestone decision by the Cabinet will facilitate better coordination among various ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) in accessing and utilizing space data.
Dr. Kwaku Afriyie, the Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MESTI), announced this significant development during a “Meet the Press” event in Accra.
He emphasized that the policy’s approval is a pivotal step in the nation’s progress, addressing the lack of coordination and value-for-money considerations in acquiring space data from external entities.
As part of the strategy to leverage space technology, MESTI is actively collaborating with relevant ministries and the private sector to elevate the Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute (GSSTI) into a full-fledged space agency. This transformation aims to drive the growth of human capital, infrastructure, and space science within the country. Despite the government’s freeze on establishing new agencies due to financial constraints, Dr. Afriyie appealed for an exemption, citing the GSSTI’s existing infrastructure that would mitigate any financial burden. He highlighted the potential losses Ghana could face if it fails to capitalize on the opportunities offered by space technology.
In addition to the space policy, the ministry has unveiled a ten-year master plan under the Ghana-Korea K-Innovation Partnership Programme to boost the commercialization of research and innovation.
Moreover, the review of the National Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) policy received support from the UN Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).
Another critical initiative involves the collaboration with the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) to review a Biological and Toxin Weapons Bill aimed at implementing the 1972 Convention prohibiting the development, production, and stockpiling of bacteriological and toxin weapons.
The ministry also recognizes the urgency of environmental protection and circular economy principles. Dr. Afriyie emphasized their commitment to combatting climate change through various strategies, including advocating for clean and renewable energy sources, promoting energy efficiency, and building climate-resilient infrastructure.
Furthermore, efforts are being made to tackle waste management and resource efficiency, with a focus on responsible handling of plastics and electrical and electronic waste.
In line with this, MESTI is providing technical and financial support to 12 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in the plastic value chain to enhance plastic waste management, discourage single-use plastics, and explore the production of biodegradable alternatives.
The Government’s approval of the national space policy marks a significant step towards harnessing space science and technology for sustainable development in Ghana. The policy’s implementation will streamline access to space data across various ministries and agencies, ensuring better coordination and value-for-money considerations. With Dr. Afriyie’s leadership, the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MESTI) is driving initiatives in research, innovation, climate change mitigation, and waste management to address critical challenges facing the nation. These efforts reflect Ghana’s commitment to a more sustainable and resilient future.