26 Feb 2025

Botswana has launched its first satellite, BOTSAT-1, marking a significant milestone for the nation and Africa’s growing space community. The announcement was made by the Vice Chancellor of the Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST), Professor Otlogetswe Totolo, during a media conference held  in Gaborone Monday.
Professor Totolo said this achievement reflected Botswana’s technological capabilities and commitment to innovation-driven economic growth. “BOTSAT-1 is more than a satellite launch. It reflects a national vision of technological sovereignty and scientific advancement, positioning Botswana as a rising leader in Africa’s space ecosystem,” he explained.
Prof Totolo said the satellite would play a vital role in supporting various sectors, including enhancing precision farming, monitoring land use, improving early warning systems for natural disasters such as floods, droughts, and wildfires, as well as tracking climate change, deforestation, and biodiversity. Additionally, it would aid infrastructure development and land mapping.
In the absence of a formal space agency, BIUST has spearheaded the research, engineering, and capacity-building efforts behind BOTSAT-1. Prof Totolo emphasised the importance of dedicated institutions driving space innovation without waiting for traditional bureaucratic structures. “This initiative demonstrates that with strategic partnerships and investments, even smaller nations can make significant contributions to the global space sector,” he added.
The satellite project was made possible through collaborations between BIUST, the University of Botswana (UB), and other institutions, fostering the development of the next generation of space scientists and engineers. Prof Totolo also acknowledged the role of the media in raising public awareness about the project and encouraged journalists to share BOTSAT-1’s journey with the nation. “Together, we will write history step by step, pushing the boundaries of what Botswana can achieve,” he said. Answering questions from the media, Prof Totolo emphasised the importance of partnerships and collaboration with other nations.
He also stressed the need to train young people to tap into this new knowledge, expressing confidence that Botswana has the potential to nurture its own future tech innovators, comparing the potential of local talent to global figures like Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk. Project Lead, Dr Dimane Mpoeleng and the BOTSAT team shared insights into the technical aspects of the project and its long-term potential for national and continental development. ENDS