WINDHOEK, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Namibia on Monday called for the use of satellite technology, legislative reform, and international partnerships to enhance its emerging space economy and promote socio-economic development.

Lisho Mundia, deputy executive director in the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture, highlighted Namibia's strategic ambitions to build a robust domestic space industry while addressing students, scientists, and international delegates at the opening of World Space Week 2026 in Windhoek.

"Space science and technology is an expanding field of opportunity for research, innovation, education, entrepreneurship and national development," Mundia said, noting that it presents an opportunity to build capabilities and ensure that the youth are prepared to participate in and benefit from the space economy.

According to Mundia, after adopting its inaugural Space Science and Technology Policy in 2021, the Namibian cabinet directed the drafting of a comprehensive Space Science and Technology Bill in 2025.

"The proposed law will establish a legal and institutional framework for the development and regulation of space science and technology activities in Namibia," he said, noting that the legislation aims to promote research, facilitate capacity-building, and attract foreign investment to create local employment.

Furthermore, he highlighted that Namibia has expanded its technical infrastructure through international collaboration.

Mundia said the recent commissioning of a satellite ground data receiving station will enhance Namibia's capacity to receive and process satellite data for application across various government sectors and support evidence-based planning and decision-making.

According to Mundia, Namibia's favorable geographical location makes it a prime destination for major global astronomical projects like the High Energy Stereoscopic System and the Africa Millimeter Telescope. ■

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