Utilizing satellite imagery for economic development in Africa: Advances, challenges and future directions
1 Dell Technologies, Round Rock, Texas, USA.
2 Inspire Girls in Technology Foundation, Nigeria.
3 Department of Sustainability and Social Justice, Clark University, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA.
4 Department of Computer Science, University of Lincoln, United Kingdom.
5 School of Computing, Engineering and Built Environment, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, United Kingdom.
6 Department of Urban Studies, Worcester State University, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA.
7 Numa Italia S.R.L, Milan, Italy.
8 O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, Bloomington, USA
9 College of Business and Technology at Western Illinois University, USA
10 Dochase Adx, Lagos, Nigeria.
Review Article
GSC Advanced Research and Reviews, 2025, 22(02), 088-093.
Article DOI: 10.30574/gscarr.2025.22.2.0032
Publication history:
Received on 17 December 2024; revised on 04 February 2025; accepted on 07 February 2025
Abstract:
Satellite imagery provides unmatched insights into numerous areas important to Africa's economic development. In this paper, we address recent advancements, ongoing issues, and possibilities for the application of satellite imagery for economic development in Africa. The first section covers satellite technology developments such as high-resolution imaging, multi-spectral and hyperspectral capabilities, synthetic aperture radar (SAR), and fusion with AI. Next, we present data accessibility, technical expertise, integration with local knowledge, and policy frameworks as satellite imaging adoption hurdles. Finally, we recommend integrating new technologies, boosting spatial and temporal resolutions, collaboration, capacity-building, and policy frameworks. By overcoming these obstacles and preparing ahead, African states can use satellite pictures to boost economic growth.
Keywords:
Satellite Imagery; Economic Development; Technology; Africa
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Copyright © 2025 Author(s) retain the copyright of this article. This article is published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Liscense 4.0
