How US and Canadian expertise is powering Zimbabwe’s space ambitions

BY NATHAN GUMA

THE United States and Canada are stepping up efforts to support Zimbabwe’s emerging space sector, with a focus on education, research collaboration and skills development.

This comes comes as global interest in space exploration grows around programmes such as Artemis II, led by National Aeronautics and Space Administration in partnership with the Canadian Space Agency.

Artemis II which successfully launched from the Kennedy Space Center successfully orbitted the moon becoming the farthest human spaceflight in history and splashed down on the coast of California on April 11.

Zimbabwe is part of the global community that will benefit through technology access and scientific data among others.

US Deputy Chief of Mission in Zimbabwe, Phil Nervig (pictured), said the Artemis programme highlights the importance of international cooperation in advancing space science.

The country has already benefited from international space infrastructure through the successful launch and deployment of the ZimSat-1 satellite from US systems.

“Zimbabwe became part of the global community shaping the future of space in November 2022 with the launch of ZimSat-1,” Nervig said while speaking at the Artemis II splashdown event held at the Canadian Ambassador’s residence in Harare.

The ZimStat-1 satellite developed by Zimbabwean engineers in collaboration with Japanese partners launched from a NASA facility in Virginia, marking a significant milestone for the country’s space ambitions.

Nervig said such partnerships demonstrate what can be achieved through shared expertise and investment in local talent.

He said that the US is supporting Zimbabwe’s space aspirations by investing in education and research opportunities for young scientists.

For instance, in 2023, Zimbabwean students participated in NASA’s Pale Blue Dot Challenge, analysing Earth observation data and exploring environmental responsibility.

Further strengthening academic links, Zimbabwean researcher Primrose Bokamai, a Fulbright scholar pursuing a PhD in materials science and engineering in Idaho, is expected to work with engineers involved in the Artemis programme.

Nervig said Bokamai’s journey from working on ZimStat-related projects to engaging with leading space research institutions reflects the growing pipeline of Zimbabwean talent in the sector.

The US is also exploring opportunities for Zimbabwean schools and institutions to join the Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment initiative, which connects students worldwide in Earth system science through data collection and analysis.

Canada’s contribution to STEM

Canada has been supporting science and technology development in Zimbabwe.

Canadian Ambassador Adler Arstilde (pictured) said there is significant potential to deepen collaboration with Zimbabwean institutions, researchers and innovators.

“Canada is proud to support STEM education, research and career development in Zimbabwe,” he said.

Through the Canadian National Committee for UNICEF, Canada is funding STEM initiatives targeting adolescent girls, including the rollout of 34 mobile science laboratories in Epworth and Hopley, alongside training for teachers to support science clubs and fairs.

Canada has also supported the Women in ICT Conference by sponsoring young women from Zimbabwean universities to participate in mentorship and professional development programmes.

Ambassador Asrtilde said beyond education, Canada is investing in Africa’s artificial intelligence ecosystem through the International Development Research Centre, bringing together experts from across the continent to develop locally relevant and inclusive AI solutions.

These combined efforts by the US and Canada show a growing network of international partnerships aimed at helping Zimbabwe benefit from advances in space science and technology.