Zimbabwe is set to launch multiple satellites into orbit this year, including its third earth observation satellite, ZimSat-3, as part of an ongoing effort to harness space technology for national progress, the local media outlet The Sunday Mail reported on Saturday.
In addition to ZimSat-3, Zimbabwe is developing several communication satellites aimed at improving ground-based telecommunications. These satellites will expand network coverage and provide satellite internet access, addressing connectivity challenges in rural and remote areas.
ZINGSA director-general, Painos Gweme, confirmed that work is underway on multiple satellite projects.
“Satellite design, manufacture, testing, and launch are not an event but a process involving multiple stakeholders,” he told the The Sunday Mail.
He emphasized that the goal is not just to launch satellites, but to ensure they serve practical national needs.
“We currently lack real-time earth observation capabilities that provide updated satellite images every five to six hours. This data is crucial for crop yield analysis, monitoring soil erosion, and assessing environmental changes,” he reportedly added.
Zimbabwe entered the space industry with the launch of ZimSat-1 in November 2022, followed by ZimSat-2 in November 2024 that was launched from Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russia.
To support these advancements, ZINGSA has upgraded the Mazowe Ground Control Station to support advanced frequency bands, bolstering the country's satellite communication capabilities. The agency is also actively involved in surveying mining towns affected by illegal mining activities to ensure public and infrastructural safety.