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Jacqueline Ntaka

Feature
IN the heady days of Zimbabwe’s independence, the notion of the nation venturing into space technology would have been considered a fantastical, almost ludicrous, proposition. Back then, the focus was firmly on building a newly liberated nation, addressing immediate needs, and establishing a stable foundation for the future.

Yet, here we are, decades later, with Zimbabwe’s ambitious space technology initiative, spearheaded by the Zimbabwe National Geospatial and Space Agency (ZINGSA), forging ahead.

Despite persistent ridicule and cynicism from doubters, a constant reminder of the unexpected trajectory of the nation’s development, the programme presents a prospect of transformative national benefits, albeit one fraught with considerable challenges. It is a demonstration of the nation’s evolving aspirations and its determination to embrace technological advancement, even when faced with scepticism.

Mviyo Technologies founder and CEO Ms Jackie Ntaka

The deployment of satellites offers a potent tool for advancing Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector, a cornerstone of its economy. By furnishing precise, real-time data, satellites empower farmers to optimise resource utilisation, monitor crop health with unprecedented accuracy, and make informed yield predictions. Imagine, for instance, satellite imagery pinpointing areas where crops suffer nutrient deficiencies, enabling targeted fertiliser application, thus minimising waste and maximising productivity.

Furthermore, the capacity to monitor weather patterns and anticipate extreme events such as droughts or floods, equips farmers with crucial information to adapt to the increasing vagaries of climate change.

Beyond agriculture, satellite technology can revolutionise resource management. It provides the means to identify and manage mineral deposits, a vital component of Zimbabwe’s economic landscape, with greater efficiency and precision. Moreover, it facilitates comprehensive monitoring of environmental changes, including deforestation, soil erosion, and the management of precious water resources, contributing to sustainable development.

In the realm of disaster management, satellites provide real-time data for monitoring and responding to natural disasters like floods, droughts and wildfires, thereby enabling swift and effective interventions that can save lives and mitigate damage.

Urban planning and infrastructure development stand to benefit significantly, with satellite imagery allowing for detailed mapping of urban areas, supporting informed decisions on infrastructure projects, urban development, and the management of urban challenges such as traffic congestion and unplanned settlements.

On the national security front, satellite technology enhances surveillance capabilities, bolstering border security and overall national safety. The development and launch of satellites also serve as catalysts for scientific and technological advancement, fostering a culture of innovation and providing invaluable opportunities for education and training in space science and technology. Crucially, the creation of a thriving space industry holds the potential to unlock new avenues for economic growth, generating jobs and stimulating technological innovation.

Mviyo Technologies chief IT officer Mr Mandla Nkiwane

However, the path to realising these benefits is not without its obstacles. Financial constraints pose a significant challenge, as space programmes demand substantial investments in infrastructure, technology, and skilled personnel. Securing adequate funding is a major hurdle for a developing nation.

Building and maintaining the necessary technological infrastructure, including ground stations and data processing facilities, requires advanced expertise and resources. Ensuring reliable data transmission and analysis is equally critical.

Developing a skilled workforce in space science and technology necessitates significant investment in education and training, and attracting and retaining qualified professionals can be difficult. The effective management and utilisation of the vast amounts of data generated by satellites require sophisticated data analysis capabilities, and ensuring that this data is accessible and useful to relevant stakeholders is essential.

International co-operation is crucial for accessing expertise and resources, but it also entails navigating complex political and diplomatic landscapes. Finally, the rapid pace of technological advancement necessitates continuous upgrading and maintenance of satellite systems.

In essence, Zimbabwe’s satellite programme represents a bold step towards national development, but its success hinges on the nation’s ability to overcome these substantial financial and technological challenges.

Jacqueline Ntaka is the CEO of Mviyo Technologies, a local tech company that provides custom software development, mobile applications and data analytics solutions. She can be contacted on [email protected]