NAIROBI, Kenya- Kenya has officially planted its flag in the global space innovation arena with the launch of the inaugural ActInSpace Kenya Chapter in Nairobi, signalling a clear ambition to turn space technology into practical, market-ready solutions on African soil.
The high-energy hackathon, initiated by the French Space Agency, marks Kenya’s first participation in the globally recognised ActInSpace programme and positions the country as a rising player in space-driven innovation beyond satellites and science labs.
Speaking at the opening, Kenya Space Agency (KSA) Director General Brigadier Hillary Kipkosgey said the initiative reflects Kenya’s determination to move from being a consumer of space data to a creator of solutions powered by space technologies.
“This is about translating space into impact,” he said, noting that Kenya is deliberately opening space innovation to young problem-solvers, startups and researchers.
The Inaugural ActInSpace Kenya Chapter Kicks Off in NairobiKenya has taken a bold step in advancing space-driven innovation with the official launch of ActInSpace Kenya Chapter, marking the country’s first participation in the globally renowned innovation hackathon initiated
Since its launch in 2014, ActInSpace has brought together innovators worldwide to repurpose space technologies for everyday challenges.
For Kenya, the timing is strategic. Technologies such as Earth observation, satellite communications and navigation systems are increasingly critical in agriculture, climate resilience, disaster response, health systems, urban planning and natural resource management.
KSA officials say the hackathon aligns with Kenya’s broader Space Innovation Ecosystem Roadmap, which includes plans for a National Geo-Data Portal, a Space Technology Fund, structured support for space startups and the expansion of Anga Hub — a digital platform linking space professionals and enterprises.
The launch also highlights deepening international partnerships.
Brigadier Kipkosgey acknowledged support from the French Space Agency, Expertise France and the European Space Agency, collaborations that have already helped establish initiatives such as the ESA–KSA African Business Innovation Lab.
Running from 30 to 31 January 2026 at the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development, ActInSpace Kenya is expected to push bold ideas from concept to prototype — and potentially to market.
