What's the future of Africa in the space field?

Sara Sabry, an Egyptian Astronaut and Founder of Deep Space Initiative, is a trailblazer in Africa's space exploration field. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Sabry emphasized the importance of innovation and challenging the status quo to unlock the vast opportunities that the space industry holds for the continent. She highlighted the efforts being made to train and prepare aspiring Africans for careers in space exploration, noting the need to address barriers to access and promote international collaboration. Sabry's mission is not only to empower individuals to pursue their space-related dreams but also to drive positive change on Earth through innovations in the space sector. Sabry's journey as an entrepreneur has been met with challenges, particularly in garnering support from governments and corporate organizations. She noted that disrupting established norms and advocating for change in the space field can be met with resistance, as it requires individuals to embrace risk and step out of their comfort zones. However, Sabry remains optimistic about the future of space exploration in Africa, highlighting the growing motivation and intention among leaders to transform the continent. She stressed the importance of taking calculated risks and building a strong foundation to propel Africa to the forefront of aerospace innovation. Looking ahead, Sabry envisions a future where Africa plays a significant role in shaping the global space industry. She emphasized the need for investment in innovative solutions that address pressing environmental issues, such as climate change. By bridging the gap between scientific research and business acumen, Sabry aims to commercialize groundbreaking technologies that have the potential to revolutionize environmental sustainability. She urged Africa 50, a key player in the region's development, to consider supporting initiatives that foster collaboration between scientists, engineers, and business professionals to drive impactful change. In conclusion, Sara Sabry's vision for Africa's future in space exploration is one of hope, empowerment, and collaboration. By leveraging the continent's untapped potential and embracing a forward-thinking mindset, Africa has the opportunity to position itself as a leader in the global space industry. Through initiatives like the Deep Space Initiative and strategic partnerships with industry stakeholders, Sabry is paving the way for a new era of innovation and progress in Africa's space exploration endeavors.