Global cooperation in space is booming, with countries sharing technology, data, and know-how. The Republic of Congo, with Kazakhstan's help, is working to boost its tech skills and better manage its resources.

The Republic of Congo and Kazakhstan signed an investment agreement on Tuesday to develop a high-resolution Earth observation satellite system, Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation and Aerospace Industry said.

The signing ceremony, held at the ministry, was attended by representatives from JSC NC Kazakhstan Gharysh Sapary, the Kazakh space agency, and a Congolese delegation.

"In addition to the satellite platform, Kazakhstan offers a comprehensive solution, including training and knowledge transfer. Kazakhstan is strengthening its position as a center for technological development, and international partners trust our solutions. This is already the second successful export, confirming the high level of the domestic space industry," said Zhaslan Madiyev, Kazakhstan’s Minister of Digital Development, Innovations, and Aerospace Industry.

The agreement follows a joint roadmap signed on August 2, 2024, outlining strategic priorities for the collaboration and aligns with Congo’s strategy to diversify its technological partnerships and use space technology to address challenges including national security, natural resource management, agricultural monitoring, environmental protection and urban planning.

The Republic of Congo joins an international network of Earth observation satellites alongside countries like Mongolia. Once in orbit, the satellite will significantly improve forest monitoring, natural disaster management, agricultural activity tracking and urban infrastructure planning, the ministry said. The resulting data exchange and scientific cooperation will drive technological innovation, strengthening Congo’s digital sovereignty in a rapidly expanding strategic sector.

According to Mordor Intelligence, the global remote sensing satellite market was valued at $43.36 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $76.88 billion by 2029, growing at an annual rate of 12.14% over the forecast period.

 By Samira Njoya,

Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji