Mapping Africa Initiative Expands with UAE Tech Collaboration
Over the next five years, a collaborative initiative will map 54 African countries, benefiting over 1.4 billion people. Space42, a UAE-based global AI-powered SpaceTech firm part of G42, has partnered with Microsoft and Esri to deliver high-resolution base maps across Africa.
The ‘Map Africa Initiative’ aims to create a comprehensive base map of the continent, addressing infrastructure challenges and promoting economic development. The project focuses on providing precise data to governments and businesses, enhancing geospatial capabilities.
The collaboration integrates advanced technology to generate region-wide geospatial data that supports growth, resilience, and innovation. Reliable mapping solutions are fundamental for community prosperity and economic advancement.
The initiative involves strategic partnerships to establish a foundation for infrastructure planning, economic growth, and sustainable development across Africa. It emphasizes accurate, timely, and locally managed geospatial data to empower decision-making.
Space42 will lead fundraising and project management efforts, providing satellite data and implementing AI models to enhance map production. Esri will manage base map workflows and support training programs, while Microsoft will offer cloud infrastructure for data processing and integration.
The long-term impact of the initiative spans key industries in Africa, from logistics to renewable energy and disaster response. By enabling effective route planning and improved resource monitoring, the project contributes to smart city development and technological adoption.
The initiative supports the growth of African startups, licensing data to national governments for long-term use. Data centers managed by G42 and Microsoft will host the geospatial data benefiting various sectors across the continent.
Space42’s collaboration with Microsoft and Esri strengthens its presence in Africa, fostering new opportunities in analytics and infrastructure support. The aim is to leverage AI insights for societal progress and sustainable development in Africa, bridging the intelligence gap and transforming communities through responsible technology.
The UAE, as Africa’s primary foreign investor, recognizes the potential of data-driven development led by Space42. With a significant investment in geospatial capabilities, the initiative aligns with the UAE’s commitment to advancing AI solutions globally.
