The global space race has intensified in recent years, driven by geopolitical rivalry between major powers like the US and China for commercial dominance and resource control.
The Moon's south pole, prized for its water ice deposits, is the current battleground, with several countries racing to build permanent lunar bases before the decade is out.
Cheaper, reusable rockets from private providers like SpaceX and Blue Origin have driven down the cost of reaching orbit, fuelling the race further.
Now African nations are entering the fray too, crowding an already competitive field and reshaping what global space ambition looks like.
Which African countries have entered the space race?
