DSTI to launch Natural Resource Management Programme at celebration of King Hintsa's 191st Salutation
The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation and its entity, the South African National Space Agency (SANSA), will join the AmaXhosa Kingdom Great House to officially launch the Natural Resource Management Programme (NRMP) at Nqadu Great Place in the Eastern Cape on 8 May 2026.
The NRMP is a SANSA-led initiative that uses satellite information and space-based technology to help communities protect and manage their natural resources. By combining modern technology with community knowledge, the programme supports safer living areas, improved planning and a healthier environment.
Through the NRMP, SANSA will collaborate with national and provincial departments, district and local municipalities, research and academic institutions, and traditional authorities to provide remote sensing and geospatial solutions to generate actionable insights into the state of South Africa's natural resources. The programme will also engage communities, small businesses and graduates to raise awareness, inspire innovation and encourage the development of localised solutions at municipal and traditional authority levels.
SANSA is celebrating 15 years of demonstrating expertise and innovation in space science and technology to support the government's mandate to serve the communities for which it works. Key milestones include supporting global space missions, establishing a state-of-the-art regional Space Weather Centre, and developing critical products and services for government and the private sector that save and enhance lives, protect the environment, and grow the economy. The NRMP is the latest addition to this portfolio of impactful services.
The Department and SANSA are honoured to be part of the engagements to mark 191 years since King Hintsa's passing.
The media are invited as follows:
Date: 8 May 2026
Venue: Nqadu Great Place, Willowvale, Komkhulu
Time: 08:30 to 12:45
For more information and to RSVP, please contact Ms Zama Mthethwa on 082 808 3956 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Issued by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation.
