Egypt is making strides in promoting satellite technology in Africa with its plans to launch the NExSat-1 satellite from China by the end of this year. Sherif Sedky, CEO of the Egyptian Space Agency (EgSA), confirmed that the satellite has successfully completed all tests in Germany and will be launched from China in November or December 2023.
The Egyptian government's initiative aligns with its goal of acquiring satellite technology and establishing a "satellite constellation" to enhance Egypt's leadership in space science and technology in Africa.
This plan also supports the African Development Agenda 2063 and positions the Egyptian Space Agency as an economic entity, offering specialized services in satellite design, assembly, integration, testing and high-resolution imaging.
In addition, Egypt is set to launch the EgyptSat-2 satellite in October. Sedky met with Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly to discuss the launch of the MisrSat 2 satellite, which Egypt received in March. The Egyptian Space Agency's ambitious satellite launch plan aims to strengthen Egypt's pioneering role in space technology and sciences across Africa.
Last month, the parliament approved a decision by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, which he signed on January 24, to host the headquarters of the African Space Agency in Egypt.
