By: Nana
Appiah Acquaye
Kenya has reaffirmed its
commitment to international space law and sustainable space governance during
the 69th Session of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer
Space (COPUOS), taking place from 10 to 18 June 2026 in Vienna.
Delivering Kenya’s national
statement, Edwin Afande emphasized the importance of the five United Nations
treaties governing outer space activities, calling for continued global efforts
to promote universal adherence to these legal instruments.
Kenya highlighted the need
to address emerging legal and policy challenges arising from increased
participation of new space actors, expanding commercial space activities, and
rapidly evolving technological innovations in the global space sector.
The statement reiterated
Kenya’s commitment to ensuring that outer space remains safe, secure, stable,
and sustainable for current and future generations, in line with international
cooperation frameworks.
Kenya also underscored its
use of space technologies and geospatial data to support national development
priorities, including climate change mitigation, disaster management, food
security, water resource management, and environmental protection.
In addition, Kenya announced
plans to host the Regional Space Law Technical Advising Mission for the African
region, scheduled for 10 to 13 November 2026 at the Luigi Broglio-Malindi Space
Centre.
The mission, organized by
the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs in collaboration with the
Italian Space Agency, is expected to strengthen regional capacity and enhance
understanding of space law and policy across Africa.
Kenya reiterated its broader
commitment to promoting responsible and inclusive space governance that
supports sustainable development and ensures equitable access to the benefits
of space science and technology.
