Ethiopia's SSGI and SkyWin sign MoU on drones and aerial survey

Ethiopia's Space Science and Geospatial Institute (SSGI) and drone maker SkyWin Aeronautics Industry have signed a memorandum of understanding setting up a framework for joint work. SSGI announced the agreement on 28 October 2026.

Cooperation areas include building aeronautics technology, designing and producing drones, carrying out aerial surveys, joint research, testing and verifying systems, and developing skilled staff with technology transfer. The partners also plan training for professionals, sharing of experience, and turning research results into usable solutions.

SSGI Director General Abdisa Yilma said the partnership will be judged by the solutions and human capacity it produces. SkyWin General Manager Solomon Guade said the company aims to move quickly from signing to implementation.

Why it matters: The agreement links Ethiopia's national geospatial institute with a domestic drone manufacturer, which could expand locally built platforms and aerial survey capacity. Practitioners should watch whether it yields civilian mapping services and trained personnel.