The Kenya Space Agency (KSA) has announced a significant step forward in the nation’s space exploration ambitions with the release of the Draft Kenya Space Bill 2024. To ensure that the legislation reflects the views and aspirations of all stakeholders, the KSA is inviting the public to participate in the consultation process.
The Draft Bill is a landmark document that seeks to position Kenya as a key player in the global space industry. It outlines the structure, responsibilities, and powers of the Kenya Space Agency, regulates space-related activities and ensures that Kenya’s space endeavors align with international standards.
The KSA is encouraging all interested parties—ranging from individual citizens to academic institutions, industry professionals, and organizations—to review the Draft Bill and submit their feedback. This participation is a crucial part of shaping a legal framework that will impact Kenya’s future in space.
Those wishing to participate can do so by downloading the full text of the Draft Kenya Space Bill 2024 from the KSA’s official website. Stakeholders are urged to prepare their written submissions, which should clearly articulate their views, concerns, and suggestions about specific clauses or the overall framework of the Bill. Submissions can be enhanced by including supporting evidence or references.
The KSA has provided multiple channels for submissions, including email, postal mail, and an online portal, making it easy for all Kenyans to contribute. All submissions must be received by the noon on Friday, September 6, 2024, to be considered in the legislative process.
In addition to accepting written submissions, the Kenya Space Agency will be hosting a series of public consultation meetings across various counties. These meetings will offer an opportunity for direct engagement and discussion on the Draft Bill, allowing stakeholders to voice their opinions and ask questions in person. The details of these meetings, including dates and venues, will be announced soon via the KSA website and other media channels.
The KSA has emphasized the importance of public participation in refining the Draft Kenya Space Bill 2024. The feedback received during this consultation process will be instrumental in ensuring that the final version of the Bill is comprehensive, balanced, and reflective of the diverse perspectives within Kenya.
On 15 April 2023 – Taifa-1, Kenya’s first operational earth observation satellite, was launched to space aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, US. The satelite, developed by 9 Kenyan Engineers collects agricultural and environmental data, including on floods, drought, and wildfires, for disasters and to combat food insecurity.
