Defence Principal Secretary Patrick Mariru has called for joint collaboration between the Kenya Space Agency and the Italian Space Agency to enable the two countries reap the fortunes of space activities.
The PS appreciated the cooperation between the two Agencies at the Malindi Space Centre but noted much needed to be done to have a win-win situation for the two countries.
Speaking when he hosted the Italian Ambassador to Kenya His Excellency Roberto Natalii, the PS said the existing framework that is at the implementation stage should have visible impact to support the Kenyan economy.
“We are more delighted to have the ongoing engagements in space activities at the Malindi Space Centre. We are also exploring ways to continue improving the partnerships for the maximum benefit of the citizens of our two countries,” said the PS.
Dr. Korir Sing’oei, the Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs affirmed that Kenya appreciates the relationship between the two countries that have a long history of friendship adding that it is on this foundation that the Italian President is expected to visit the country in a week’s time.
Brigadier Hillary Kipkosgey, the KSA Director General noted that Kenyans look up to the Malindi-based facility to provide critical data among them earth observation applications to support social economic activities among agriculture and mining.
He said that the Centre is a focal point adding that the Agency continues to offer capacity building programs for start-ups and other stakeholders in the sector.
KSA is a State Corporation domiciled in the Ministry of Defence to promote, coordinate and regulate space-related activities in the country.
Others who attended the meeting include the Vice Chief of Defence Forces (VCDF) Francis Ogolla, Director of Defence National Securities Industries (DNSI) Major General Bernard Waliaula and Ambassador Lucy Kirithu from the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs.
Source: Ministry of Defence