The growing role of aerospace and information technology in driving sustainable development in Africa took centre stage during the 2026 China-Africa International Aerospace Information Technology Conference, held at Sino Africa Joint Research Centre (SAJOREC) in Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) on Tuesday August 11, 2026.
The conference, held under the theme “Empowering China-Africa Sustainable Development with Aerospace Information Technology,” brought together representatives from academia, government and the diplomatic community to explore opportunities for greater cooperation in aerospace technology, innovation, research and information technology.
Speaking during the conference on behalf of JKUAT’s Vice Chancellor, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Research, Extension and Production (RPE), Prof. Jackson Kwanza, highlighted the important role of universities in promoting technological innovation, research and skills development. He further noted that institutions of higher learning have a responsibility to prepare young people with the knowledge and skills needed to participate in emerging fields such as aerospace and information technology.
“At JKUAT, we firmly believe that universities must serve as engines of innovation and development. Our commitment extends beyond teaching and research to developing technologies that address real-world challenges while nurturing graduates equipped to compete in a rapidly evolving global knowledge economy,” said Prof. Kwanza. “I am particularly encouraged by the participation of young researchers and students in this conference. You are the scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and innovators who will define the future of aerospace and information technology. I encourage you to embrace interdisciplinary collaboration, think creatively, and pursue research that addresses the pressing needs of our societies,” he added.
While welcoming the guests to the conference, Director SAJOREC Prof. Robert Gituru, emphasized the university’s commitment to creating opportunities for students and researchers to engage with new technologies. He noted that collaboration between African and Chinese institutions could provide an important platform for knowledge sharing, research and innovation.
“The collaboration between African and Chinese institutions represents more than academic exchange. It is a partnership founded on mutual respect, shared aspirations, and a commitment to building scientific capacity for future generations,” said Prof. Gituru. “Through joint research, technology transfer, faculty and student exchange, innovation hubs, and industrial partnerships, we can create lasting solutions that benefit both continents,” he added.
On his part, Mr. Zhang Zhizhong, Minister Counsellor from the Chinese Embassy, highlighted the importance of strengthening cooperation between China and Africa in science, technology and innovation. He noted that aerospace information technology has the potential to contribute to development by providing reliable information and technological solutions to some of the challenges facing African countries.
He emphasized on the importance of sharing knowledge, expertise and technological capabilities between Chinese and African institutions. Noting that stronger partnerships can help African countries harness aerospace information technologies to address practical challenges and improve the lives of communities.
“There is potential of technologies such as satellite remote sensing, geographic information systems, Earth observation and digital technologies to support areas including agriculture, environmental conservation, water-resource management, urban development and disaster monitoring,” noted Mr. Zhizhong. “China remains committed to strengthening exchanges and cooperation with African countries in science and technology, while encouraging universities and research institutions to establish stronger partnerships that can promote joint research, training and innovation,” he added.
Kenya Space Agency Director General Major General Hillary Kipkosgey highlighted the importance of space-based technologies in supporting national development. Technologies such as satellite imagery, remote sensing, geographic information systems and other aerospace applications can provide valuable information for agriculture, environmental management, climate monitoring, disaster preparedness and urban planning.
“The government should put more emphasis the importance of strengthening cooperation between governments, universities, research institutions and international partners to advance Africa’s space capabilities. Space technology should not be viewed as a field reserved for scientists and engineers alone, but as an important tool for improving the lives of ordinary citizens,” said Mr. Kipkosgey.
He further emphasized on the need to develop local human capacity by encouraging young people to pursue education and careers in space science, technology, engineering and related fields. Noting that building a skilled workforce would enable African countries to develop solutions that respond directly to local challenges.
As African countries continue to seek sustainable solutions to challenges such as climate change, food insecurity, environmental degradation and disaster management, participants noted that aerospace information technology could become an increasingly important tool for development.
The conference discussions demonstrated that with stronger partnerships between China and Africa, aerospace information technology can play a significant role in empowering communities, supporting informed decision-making and advancing sustainable development across the continent.
