MoU between SIA-India and Ghana Space Science inked

The SatCom Industry Association-India (SIA-India) on Friday said it has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute (GSSTI) for furthering collaboration in the satellite communication and space sector.

“We are excited to embark on this partnership with GSSTI which represents a significant step toward strengthening space sector ties between India and Ghana,” Dr. Subba Rao Pavuluri, President of SIA-India said.

According to him, the MoU aims to formalise the cooperation towards impactful initiatives, including capacity-building programmes tailored for Ghanaian space professionals, and the co-development of satellites, ground stations, and space application tools. 

In addition, there pilot projects focused on agriculture, mining, environmental management will showcase the actual impact of space technologies for socio-economic development, Pavuluri added.

Coming under the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission and the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, the GSSTI is tasked with coordinating and leveraging space science and technology for Ghana's socio-economic advancement. Established in 2012, GSSTI operates three major centers focusing on Radio Astronomy and Astrophysics, Remote Sensing and Climate, and Satellite Communications and Engineering:

The SIA-India said the MoU aligns with Africa’s Agenda 2063 and the Science, Technology, and Innovation Strategy for Africa , STISA-2024,that stresses space as a key driver of socio-economic transformation. 

The MoU can also enable business-to-business and business-to-government  engagement between  India and Ghana. Companies from both nations can explore new business opportunities, enhance mutual growth, and leverage each other’s expertise in the space sector. 

“This alliance marks a significant milestone in SIA-India’s ongoing efforts to strengthen international ties, especially with Africa, which is a strategically important market for the Indian space industry. The MoU with GSSTI highlights India’s growing role as a key partner for transformative technologies in space, and we are committed to supporting Ghana in leveraging these technologies for socio-economic growth. By facilitating knowledge exchange and joint initiatives, we aim to drive innovation and further enhance India’s position as a global leader in the space sector,” Anil Prakash, Director General of SIA-India said.

The SIA-India said the relationship between Africa and India is rooted in decades of cooperation across culture, trade, and technology. 

“With India-Africa trade reaching $90.5 billion in 2022–23, and a goal to scale it to $200 billion by 2030, this partnership reflects the evolving synergy between the two regions. Ghana, as a key African player, is poised to benefit from India’s transformative advancements in space technology, including satellite manufacturing, launch services, and innovative space applications,” SIA-India said.

India has consistently engaged with Africa in space and technology initiatives, as evidenced by programs like the Pan Africa eNetwork Project, the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme, and the India-Africa Partnership Fund. 

Through this MoU, Ghana stands to leverage India’s expertise while advancing its own space agenda. This collaboration aims to unlock new opportunities, promote innovation, and strengthen the bond between India and Ghana, fostering a future of shared growth and technological advancement.