Minister Nzimande congratulates new head of space agency

The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, congratulates Mr Humbulani Mudau on his appointment as the new CEO of the South African National Space Agency (SANSA), and wished Mr Mudau well in his new role.

The agency turned twelve (12) yesterday and officially welcomed its third CEO on the 1st April 2023.

The Minister also thanked Ms Andiswa Mlisa, who has been Acting CEO since the departure of Dr Val Munsami last year.

Mr Mudau, the former Chief Director: Space Science and Technology at the Department of Science and Innovation, brings with him a wealth of experience and the ability to lead diverse teams, build long-term stakeholder relations, and develop policies, strategies and implement programmes.

While at the Department, Mr Mudau was responsible for the National Space Strategy and the South African Earth Observation Strategy, as well as the establishment of SANSA and the National Earth Observation and Space Secretariat, among many other initiatives. 

In his capacity as the senior scientific representative at Group on Earth Observations (GEO) Secretariat in Geneva, he conceptualised the African Group on Earth Observations initiative.

He has played an instrumental role in engaging the Southern, Eastern and Western Africa regions in GEO initiatives, as well as serving on various African Union technical working groups.

Mr Mudau is expected to make a strong contribution to achieving SANSA's mandate on the continent and globally.

For more information contact Thabang Setlhare at 072 659 9690.

Issued by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation.

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