October 10, 2025
The South African National Space Agency (SANSA), under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer Mr. Humbulani Mudau, proudly led the South African delegation to the 76th International Astronautical Congress (IAC) held in Sydney from 29 September to 3 October 2025.
Hosted by the International Astronautical Federation and the Space Industry Association of Australia, the IAC is the world’s premier space event, bringing together thousands of global space leaders, innovators, and stakeholders. This year’s theme, “Sustainable Space: Resilient Earth,” focused on the critical intersection between space innovation and sustainability, with key discussions around:
- Space-based applications for Earth
- Sustainable space activities
- Sustaining life beyond Earth
SANSA’s delegation included top agency experts, government representatives, and 12 South African space industry partners, showcasing the country’s cutting-edge capabilities in satellite design, Earth observation, data innovation, and space technology development.
“Space strengthens our sovereignty, resilience, and development. It protects lives, fuels our economy, and connects us globally,” said Mr. Mudau.
As part of its mission to promote South Africa’s space sector and foster international collaboration, SANSA signed several strategic agreements during the congress:
- A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Maldives Space Research Organisation (MSRO) to collaborate on astronomy, Earth observation, and ground station development.
- An Implementation Plan with Angola’s Space Program Management Office (GGPEN) under an existing MoU, advancing regional cooperation in space science and technology.
These partnerships reflect SANSA’s commitment to building global alliances, developing human capital, and supporting industrial growth in space-related fields.
SANSA continues to play a pivotal role in positioning South Africa as a key player in the global space community, driving innovation, sustainability, and inclusive development through space science and technology.
For more information contact:
Khumbulani Mkhize, Earth Observation (EO) Marketing Specialist
Vaneshree Maharaj, Communications Manager
About the South African National Space Agency
At SANSA we believe in creating an infinite impact for the benefit of all South Africans through technological advancement and innovation. The agency was established in 2010 through the South African National Space Agency Act, 36 of 2008. SANSA aims to promote cooperation in space-related activities, foster research in space science, advance scientific engineering through human capital and support the development of an environment conducive to industrial development in space technologies.
