By: Kanto
Kai Okanta
Kenya is exploring stronger
use of satellite technology and Earth observation data to improve emergency
preparedness, early warning and response to climate-related risks.
Kenya’s Special Envoy on
Technology, Ambassador Philip Thigo, held discussions with Planet Labs
representatives Ahmed Taha, Solutions Engineer, Gerald Yegon, Regional Sales
Lead for Africa, and Dr Kenneth Mubea on strengthening technology collaboration
for emergency preparedness and response.
The discussions focused
particularly on the potential impact of the El Niño weather phenomenon expected
later this year and the need to strengthen the country’s ability to anticipate
and respond to emerging risks.
According to Thigo,
continued support from Planet Labs in providing access to high-resolution
satellite data and imagery could enhance early warning systems, improve
situational awareness and support rapid assessment during emergencies.
Access to timely Earth
observation data can provide government institutions and emergency response
agencies with information on changing conditions, allowing them to assess risks
and make informed decisions before situations escalate.
The collaboration comes as
climate-related risks become more frequent and complex, increasing the demand
for accurate and timely information to support disaster preparedness and
response.
Thigo said stronger access
to satellite intelligence could give institutions a greater decision-making
advantage by helping them identify risks earlier, anticipate potential impacts
and coordinate responses more effectively.
