Press Conference for launching of RWASAT-1

On October 8, the Embassy of Japan in Rwanda, the University of Tokyo, the Ministry of ICT and Innovation and the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) held a joint press conference, on which representatives from three organizations announced that a H2B rocket carrying the Rwandan satellite RWASAT-1 was launched from the Tanegashima Space Center by the Japanese Aerospace and Exploration Agency (JAXA) on September 24.

Hon. Paula Ingabire, Minister of ICT and Innovation explained that about 50 Rwandan engineers have been trained in space technologies under the partnership with the University of Tokyo. She added that the country is hoping to reap significant benefits from having its own satellite into the space and there are endless possibilities for Rwanda. Col. Nyirishema, Director General of RURA announced that RWASAT-1 will be launched into orbit in the week of November 18.

Ambassador Miyashita said that the principal reason for the University of Tokyo to choose Rwanda as a partner is the keen sense of speed of Rwanda in developing its own satellite project. He added that Japan will continue to assist Rwanda in the development of space technology, particularly the transfer of know-how for the management of satellite including regulations and regional coordination.