GABORONE, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- Botswana's Minister of Communications and Innovation David Tshere on Tuesday announced that the southern African country plans to launch a new Earth observation satellite.
"Regarding Botswana satellite developments, the plan is to launch BOTSAT-2 to augment BOTSAT-1 achievement made so far," said Tshere in an address at the parliament.
Commercialization of BOTSAT-1 data will continue to support funding efforts for BOTSAT-2 and create both upstream and downstream entrepreneurship opportunities, he noted.
Tshere said engagements have already begun, as Botswana continues to seek opportunities for collaboration and cooperation with other satellite owners.
Moreover, he said technological solutions and innovation will be explored to unlock opportunities for job and wealth creation in Botswana.
Botswana's first national satellite, BOTSAT-1, was launched in March and serves as a powerful tool for environmental monitoring, precision agriculture, urban planning, and disaster management. ■