South African National Space Agency appoints interim board

South Africa’s Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, has appointed a five-member interim board to lead the South African National Space Agency (SANSA). The interim members took office on 21 August 2026 and are scheduled to serve until January 2027, or until a permanent board is established.

The previous board was dissolved earlier this year under Section 13(6) of the SANSA Act after evidence suggested it was unable to perform its duties. The dissolution followed parliamentary concerns regarding underspending, project delays, and institutional performance.

The new interim board is chaired by Andrew Khutso Msiza, Senior Vice President of Research and Technology at Sasol. Other members include Shawn Basson from the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory, Professor Thulani Phillip Jili, Dr Sinenhlanhla Precious Sikhosana, and Dr Adriana Marais. The board aims to provide expertise in research, finance, and astrophysics to stabilize the agency and support the development of the national space industry.