Africa’s First Woman in Space Calls for Inclusive Future in Global Space Exploration

Egyptian astronaut Sara Sabry, the first African woman to travel into space, has urged the international community to ensure that space exploration is not reserved for an elite few. Speaking at the Africa50 Infra Forum and General Shareholders Meeting held in Lomé, Togo, Sabry stressed that Africa must play a greater role in shaping the future of the space industry.

“The demographic in space must reflect that of people on Earth,” said Sabry during a conversation themed “A Different View: Africa’s Future Reimagined.” She emphasized that being the first African woman in space comes with the responsibility of opening doors for others. “To be the first at something is to kick down the door for others to follow,” she said, to enthusiastic applause from investors and policymakers in attendance.

Championing Africa’s Place in Space

Sabry, who founded the Deep Space Initiative to democratize access to space exploration, argued that Africa must build its own capabilities in space technology to support socioeconomic development. “It is important for Africa to have a seat at the table and be involved in space exploration,” she said. “Africa needs to build its capacity in space technology and gain its own control.”

She made history in 2022 when she flew aboard Blue Origin’s New Shepard spacecraft, developed by Jeff Bezos’s aerospace company.

Experts at the forum underscored the practical benefits of space technologies for Africa, including advances in weather forecasting, agriculture, navigation, financial services, and digital education.

Recognizing a Symbol of Hope

Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group, praised Sabry as an inspiration to Africa’s youth. “As a young African scientist, you give hope that young people can be in space despite the odds,” he said, adding, “Women can not only do what men can do—they can do it even better.”

Sabry also called for reform of restrictive legal frameworks that limit participation in space programs, reinforcing her broader mission to democratize access through her non-profit organization.

Dr. Victor Oladokun, Senior Advisor to the AfDB President, described Sabry as a symbol of possibility for a new generation of Africans aiming for global frontiers once thought unattainable.