New Satellite Data Stations Launch by Space Science and Geospatial Institute

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Addis Ababa, December 1, 2025 —

The Space Science and Geospatial Institute (SSGI) has launched a new network of satellite data collection stations in Addis Ababa and several regional cities. This development marks a significant milestone in Ethiopia’s digital transformation journey. The initiative is part of the broader Digital Ethiopia 2025 Strategy, which aims to drive technological progress across the country.

State Minister of Innovation and Technology, Muluken Kere, emphasized that the strategy has created a strong foundation for major technological advancements. He pointed to ongoing efforts in building digital infrastructure and reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding satellite data receiving stations nationwide. Muluken also highlighted recent digital achievements, such as the rollout of the Digital ID project, and expressed optimism about the growing pool of skilled professionals in Ethiopia, which he sees as a positive sign for the nation’s digital future.

Currently, Ethiopia needs approximately 200 Continuous Operating Reference Stations (CORS) to achieve optimal coverage. However, only 10 have been installed so far. SSGI plans to add another 10 stations this fiscal year and aims to increase the total to 30 within the next two years. The newly launched stations include one in Addis Ababa, which will act as the main control hub, four in Sheger and surrounding towns, and others located in Bonga, Semera, Jigjiga, Debre Berhan, and Jimma.

The expanded ETCORS system is expected to greatly enhance urban management and support infrastructure development. According to SSGI Director General Abdisa Yilma (PhD), the stations are equipped with advanced technology that provides real-time geospatial data to surveyors, researchers, disaster-risk analysts, topographers, and mapping professionals.

Abdisa emphasized the importance of accurate geospatial information in the design and construction of buildings, roads, bridges, and dams. The system will also benefit agriculture, industry, mining, and other critical sectors by improving land administration and planning. SSGI plans to use the new stations extensively to enhance surveying, mapping, and research activities across the country.

State Minister of Urban and Infrastructure Fanta Dejen noted that the system will significantly improve public services, particularly in urban land management. “This will make services faster, more transparent, and fairer,” Fanta said, highlighting that the system’s near-perfect measurement accuracy will help reduce public complaints. He added that ETCORS will also support smart city development and the expansion of urban green spaces.

The Embracing the Culture of Research (ETCORS) service is not only designed for Ethiopia but also for neighboring countries and the global community. The stations, which began operations today, are expected to strengthen data-driven decision-making and improve the accuracy of surveying, land registration, and urban planning practices.

In addition, the Ministry of Urban Development and Infrastructure is working on establishing 14 more CORS stations across Ethiopia, further expanding the national geospatial infrastructure network.

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