AS the global space race gains momentum, the competition between the United States and China is extending its reach to the African continent. Analysts suggest that China, with its strategic collaborations and investments, has surged ahead, making Africa a pivotal arena for diplomatic engagement.
Nigerian space scientist Temidayo Oniosun, founder of Space in Africa, highlights the significant strides made by China in recent years, positioning itself as the leading partner for African nations. Collaborations across various sectors, including communications, observation, navigation, and positioning, underscore China’s commitment to space development on the continent. Notably, China’s BeiDou satellite navigation system is presented as a viable alternative to America’s GPS.
‘On this front, Chinese companies have been capitalising for years. It’s now that the US is waking up to this,’ Oniosun remarked at a recent forum at the US Institute of Peace in Washington.
Responding to the apparent catch-up game, a US National Security Council spokesperson emphasised that ‘U.S. companies are at the forefront’ of collaboration with Africa. The spokesperson highlighted agreements announced at the US-Africa Leaders’ Summit, including partnerships such as Nigeria’s collaboration with SpaceX.
However, China sees SpaceX as a formidable competitor in its ambition to become a dominant space power by 2045. The NASA spokesperson, while not directly addressing China’s lead, underscored the United States’ ongoing efforts for international collaboration for a peaceful future in space.
The US-led Artemis Accords, designed to guide civil space exploration in the 21st century, has garnered support from African nations. Angola, for instance, signed the accords during a visit to the White House in November.
A report from the US Institute of Peace, co-authored by Oniosun, reveals that more than 20 African countries are engaged in space programmes, accounting for 0.7 percent of global space expenditure in 2020. Rather than focusing on deep space exploration or human spaceflight, many African countries view space development as integral to achieving national development goals and addressing challenges like climate change and counter-terrorism.
African nations, such as South Africa, have established numerous partnerships with the US in space-related projects. Asanda Sangoni of the South African National Space Agency highlighted collaborations in deep space exploration, space education, and space science research.
While Africa becomes a contested arena for the space race, concerns over potential conflicts and disruptions loom large. Joseph Sany, Vice President of the Africa Centre, pointed out that as great powers vie for dominance in space, disparities in capabilities could heighten tensions and lead to conflict. The Pentagon’s 2023 report on China’s military developments underscores Beijing’s ambitions in space, including counter-space capabilities.
As the US and China intensify their competition in space, Africa finds itself at the intersection of geopolitical rivalries, technological advancements, and the quest for international collaboration. The unfolding space race signals not just a contest for dominance but also potential risks and challenges that demand global attention and cooperation.
(with VOA)