Namibia Gains Space Eye with China-Gifted Satellite Station

On Thursday, Chinese officials transferred a satellite ground station to Namibia, located outside the capital, Windhoek. This Chinese-built facility is poised to significantly improve Namibia's ability to receive and process remote-sensing data from satellites, marking a key development in China's burgeoning space program abroad.

As the United States has reduced its aid to African nations, China has been actively cultivating alliances and expanding its space presence across the continent. This strategy involves providing satellites, laboratories, and monitoring stations, with Beijing stating its intention to support African space programs and ensure no country is left behind.

However, Reuters has previously reported that China's aid projects may be facilitating a broader surveillance network as Beijing pursues dominance in space. This allows China to access data and imagery collected from facilities it provides, while Chinese personnel often maintain a long-term presence at these sites.

Namibian officials stated that the nation will fully own and operate the ground station independently. Chinese experts have trained 14 local technicians who will manage the facility, with ongoing technical support planned. A second phase for the station is also reportedly in development, further cementing China's involvement.