On October 31st-1 August, 2024, the Kenya Space Agency (KSA), operating under the Ministry of Defence (MOD), initiated a stakeholder engagement and public forum in Nairobi to review the Draft Kenya Space Bill 2024.
In his opening address, Brigadier Hillary Kipkosgey, the Acting Director General of KSA, commended the involvement of diverse stakeholders in shaping the proposed legislation. He noted that, over the past two years, KSA has hosted numerous engagement forums and capacity-building workshops, which have drawn significant public input.
This engagement, he emphasized, highlights the importance of community involvement in the legislative process.
Speaking on behalf of the Cabinet Secretary for Defence, Hon. Soipan Tuya, Mr. Isaac Masinde, Secretary Administration at Defence Headquarters, stressed the need for a strong legal framework to support Kenya’s expanding space program. He pointed out the growing importance of space activities in global economic development, with the space economy projected to reach $1.8 trillion by 2035.
Mr. Masinde also emphasized that the draft bill is aligned with international space law, with guidance from the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs. He highlighted Kenya’s ambition to become an emerging space-faring nation, noting the importance of incorporating international treaties to effectively regulate national space activities.
The Draft Space Bill aims to foster a supportive environment for space investments in Kenya, addressing key issues such as orbital debris and space traffic management, and supporting the implementation of the Kenya Space Policy 2024.
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