Space science bill aims to unlock business opportunities 

By: Selma Taapopi
 
The education ministry says the proposed Space Science and Technology Bill should position Namibia for economic growth by creating a legal framework that will attract investment and open business opportunities in the emerging space sector. 
 
Speaking during public consultations on the draft legislation on Thursday in Ongwediva, the ministry’s Chief Science and Technology Officer, Jeremia Haipinge, said the law will lay the foundation for the development of Namibia’s space science industry. 
 
Haipinge explained that space science focuses on the region beyond the Earth’s atmosphere, beginning at about 100 kilometres above the planet’s surface. 
 
He said this region is home to celestial bodies and satellites that provide critical data used in communication, navigation, weather forecasting and other services. 

 The ministry’s Space and Technology Officer Otja Tjiriange said the committee responsible for drafting the bill has representatives from several government ministries. 
 
She also noted that the responsible committee has also undertaken a benchmarking exercise in neighbouring South Africa to strengthen and refine the draft legislation. 
 
Following the current round of consultations, the draft bill will be presented to stakeholders in Ongwediva for further public input. 
A validation workshop will then be held before the proposed legislation is submitted to Cabinet for consideration and approval.

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