NAIROBI, Kenya- Kenya Space Agency has unveiled a new Earth Observation (EO) Data Sharing Framework 2026, marking a major step in the country’s push to harness space technology for development and innovation.
The framework, launched in collaboration with the British High Commission in Kenya, Research Institute for Innovation and Sustainability and VIFFA Consult, is a key component of the agency’s Strategic Plan 2023–2027 aimed at strengthening data governance and coordination in Kenya’s growing space sector.
Building a Unified Space Data Ecosystem
Speaking during the launch, KSA Director General Hillary Kipkosgey said the framework will establish a coordinated national system for managing and sharing Earth Observation data.
He noted that the initiative will bring together a wide range of stakeholders — including government agencies, universities, private sector players and development partners — into a single collaborative platform.
“The framework will enable better access, sharing and utilisation of EO data across sectors, ensuring that space-derived information delivers maximum value to the country,” he said.
Earth Observation data, collected through satellites and remote sensing technologies, is increasingly used in areas such as agriculture, climate monitoring, disaster management, urban planning and natural resource management.
KENYA LAUNCHES EARTH OBSERVATION (EO) DATA SHARING FRAMEWORK 2026. The Kenya Space Agency (KSA), in collaboration with the British High Commission in Kenya, the Research Institute for Innovation and Sustainability (RIIS), and VIFFA Consult, has formally launched the Kenya Earth
New Council to Oversee Data Governance
A key feature of the framework is the planned establishment of the National Earth Observation Data Council (NEODC), which will act as the central coordinating body.
The council will be responsible for:
- Oversight and governance of EO data systems
- Strategic direction on data use and sharing
- Ensuring sustainable and secure utilisation of space-based resources
Officials say the NEODC will help eliminate fragmentation in data systems while promoting standardisation, accessibility and collaboration across institutions.
Driving Innovation and Development
The launch signals Kenya’s growing ambition to position itself as a regional leader in space science and technology.
By improving access to EO data, the government hopes to unlock innovation, support evidence-based decision-making and strengthen resilience to climate and environmental challenges.
The initiative also reflects increasing international cooperation in Kenya’s space sector, with partners supporting capacity building, technology transfer and research.
A Milestone for Kenya’s Space Agenda
The Earth Observation Data Sharing Framework is seen as a landmark milestone in the country’s space journey, reinforcing its commitment to leveraging technology for socio-economic transformation.
With improved coordination and governance, officials believe Kenya will be better placed to translate satellite data into practical solutions, from improving food security to enhancing disaster preparedness and urban development.
As the framework moves into implementation, attention will now turn to how effectively institutions adopt the system and how quickly its benefits are felt across sectors.
