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Space42, an AI-driven SpaceTech firm based in the UAE, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Microsoft and Esri to provide high-resolution base maps for all 54 nations in Africa.
This five-year project, named the ‘Map Africa Initiative’, aims to enhance access to geospatial data and intelligent solutions for over 1.4 billion people across the continent.
Unveiled at the 2025 Esri User Conference, this partnership seeks to address persistent issues related to infrastructure, investment, and data accessibility by creating the most extensive mapping database in Africa to date. The initiative is designed to foster economic growth by improving the flow of information to governments, businesses, and communities.
“Collaboration is fundamental to the UAE’s identity and integral to Space42’s mission,” stated Hasan Al Hosani, CEO of Smart Solutions at Space42. “This alliance with Microsoft and Esri is not just a technical endeavor, but a strategic one… Reliable, high-quality mapping and the intelligence derived from it are crucial for growth, resilience, and inclusive innovation.”
Esri president Jack Dangermond remarked, “We are excited to support the Map Africa Initiative alongside Space42. Converting satellite imagery into detailed, accurate base maps on a continental level necessitates advanced geospatial technology and professional production methodologies.”
How Space42, Esri, and Microsoft intend to address mapping challenges
Maps of Africa are frequently fragmented, outdated, or hard to access, leaving decision-makers without accurate information. The Map Africa Initiative aspires to remedy this by producing timely, precise, and locally managed geospatial data across the continent.
Space42 will spearhead fundraising efforts, project coordination, and provide satellite data, utilizing AI-driven digital twin models for processing and customizing outputs. Additionally, they will guide the R&D strategy for AI and automated map production.
Esri will manage the production of base maps using its GeoAI and remote sensing technology, while also training local teams to ensure the sustainability of mapping efforts in the future.
Microsoft will offer cloud infrastructure and AI services through its Azure platform to facilitate extensive data sharing and processing.
Sector-wide effects
The mapping initiative is projected to benefit several essential sectors, including:
Ports and Logistics: Enhanced terrain mapping will aid in route planning and minimize inefficiencies.
Renewable Energy: Improved site selection for solar and wind projects.
Security and Disaster Response: Enhanced monitoring of borders and natural resources, along with better coordination during emergencies.
Smart Cities: Foundational data for urban planning, service delivery, and the growth of the digital economy.
The mapping data will be licensed to national governments, with local agencies taking charge of long-term updates. A commercial ecosystem is expected to develop, supported by African startups, with data hosted in G42 and Microsoft-operated centers throughout the continent.
Strategic significance
This MoU enhances Space42’s existing relationships with Microsoft and Esri, broadens its presence in Africa, and opens new revenue opportunities in analytics and licensing. It also cements Space42’s role as a valuable ally for governments in delivering scalable geospatial data solutions.
“This collaboration is a pivotal step toward bridging the intelligence divide,” commented Peng Xiao, group CEO of G42. “Alongside our partners, we will provide AI-driven insights that empower African nations to plan wisely, construct better, and achieve sustainable growth.”
Xiao further noted that the partnership with Microsoft underscores a shared commitment to responsibly using AI to support underserved communities.
UAE’s expanding influence
This initiative aligns with the UAE’s broader strategic objectives. In 2024, the UAE emerged as Africa’s largest foreign investor, committing $44 billion, nearly equaling the total investments from the UK and China combined.
As the UAE’s national space organization, Space42 is crucial in exporting data-driven development tools and promoting knowledge exchange between the UAE and Africa.
The initiative supports the UAE’s aspirations to take a leading role in AI-powered space solutions while creating new opportunities in both regions in sectors such as infrastructure, smart cities, and public services.