May 9, 2026
NRMP Launched at King Hinta’s 191st Salutation Event Honouring a Legacy, Securing the Future
The South African National Space Agency (SANSA), in partnership with the AmaXhosa Kingdom Great House, officially launched the Natural Resource Management Programme (NRMP) at the Nqadu Great Place in the Eastern Cape on 08 May 2026.
SANSA commemorates its 15th anniversary this year and is humbled to be a part of the engagements taking place to mark the King Hintsa 191 Salutation Event. As an entity of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, SANSA has over the past 15 years demonstrated expertise and innovation through space science and technology to support Governments mandate to serve the communities we work for. Some of the milestone achievements include the excellent record of support provided to global space mission, establishment of a state-of-the-art Regional Space Weather Warning centre, development of critical products and services for Government and private sector that save and enhance lives, the environment and grow the economy. The latest in the portfolio of such impactful products is the NRMP.
The NRMP programme aims to harness the power of remote sensing and geospatial technologies to generate actionable insights into the state and condition of South Africa’s natural resources. Like many nations, South Africa faces significant challenges related to climate change, biodiversity loss, environmental degradation, pollution, and inadequate waste management. Combined with unsustainable land-use practices, these issues increase the risk of large-scale, rapid, and potentially irreversible environmental changes that threaten both people and ecosystems.
Natural resources including water, land, plants, animals, ecosystems, and minerals are the foundation of human survival and prosperity. They underpin economic growth and support livelihoods at every level.
Through this programme, SANSA will collaborate with national and provincial departments, district and local municipalities, research and academic institutions, and traditional authorities to provide remote sensing and geospatial solutions for improved natural resource management. The programme will also engage communities, MSMEs, and graduates to raise awareness, inspire innovation, and encourage the development of localised solutions at municipal and traditional authority levels.
Why Is This Important?
Effective natural resource management is essential for environmental sustainability, economic development, and community well-being. By leveraging Earth Observation technologies, South Africa can make informed decisions, address environmental challenges, and plan for a more resilient future.
How Will the Community Benefit?
This initiative will empower local communities with data and tools to support informed decision-making at grassroots level. It will enable better planning for agriculture, water management, disaster preparedness, land use, and natural resource management, ultimately improving livelihoods and resilience.
Space Education
As part of promoting Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), the Space Education Unit within SANSA, in partnership with stakeholders including NRF SAASTA district coordinators, will visit schools within the Amathole District in the Eastern Cape prior to the launch event. Approximately 350 learners from selected schools will attend the SANSA Space Exhibition Day on 08 May 2026 at Nqadu Great Place.
This initiative forms part of SANSA’s efforts to educate learners about career and entrepreneurial opportunities in space related fields and inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers and innovators.
For more information contact:
Khumbulani Mkhize, EO Marketing Specialist
Vaneshree Maharaj, Communications Manager
