SAGA-EO – Support Action to GMES-Africa on Earth Observation

The Support Action to GMES-Africa on Earth Observation (SAGA-EO) was a feasibility and capacity-building initiative aimed at strengthening African Earth Observation (EO) systems and institutional networks. The project supported the development of national EO coordination structures linked to regional African and European initiatives, contributing to long-term data interoperability and strategic EU–AU cooperation.

The program addressed technological, organizational, and governance gaps in EO systems by designing compatible data management solutions and establishing proof-of-concept national networks. It laid the groundwork for future operational EO frameworks under the GMES-Africa initiative and strengthened collaboration between African user institutions and European data providers.

Key Contributions & Impact

• Organized and structured multi-thematic national Earth Observation networks in participating countries
  • Conducted review and assessment of existing EO systems in Africa and Europe
  • Designed proof-of-concept mechanisms linking African users with European EO platforms
  • Contributed to development of organizational and technological models for future EO networks
  • Supported EU–AU strategic cooperation within GMES-Africa working groups
  • Strengthened institutional coordination for geospatial data sharing and interoperability.