Côte d'Ivoire Joins Artemis Accords as 75th Signatory

On September 24, 2026, Côte d'Ivoire took a significant step in its space exploration efforts by signing the Artemis Accords, officially becoming the 75th country to join this international agreement. The signing occurred in Abidjan, the largest city in Côte d'Ivoire, during the Africa Space Expo ASPEX 2026. This milestone not only reflects Côte d'Ivoire's commitment to peaceful space exploration but also enhances its collaboration with other nations in advancing scientific and technological initiatives in space. The Artemis Accords, initiated by NASA and other founding nations in 2020, establish principles that guide responsible and transparent exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond. These principles include ensuring safety, providing aid to those in need, and preserving significant historical sites. By signing the accords, Côte d'Ivoire aligns itself with a growing coalition of countries dedicated to fostering international cooperation in space activities, reflecting a shared ambition to explore and utilize outer space for the benefit of all humanity.

NASA’s Deputy Administrator Matt Anderson emphasized the importance of this partnership, noting that collaboration between the United States and Côte d'Ivoire would extend beyond Earth and into space. This partnership aims to create new opportunities for scientists and engineers in both nations, enabling them to work together as humanity prepares for a return to the Moon and future exploration endeavors. The signing ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Adama Diawara, and Chargé d’affaires Junaid Munir from the U.S. Department of State. Côte d'Ivoire has been actively involved in space science and technology, establishing its Space Agency in 2025 to coordinate national efforts in areas such as Earth observation and satellite navigation. Collaboration with NASA since 2019 has led to advancements in Earth observation and geodesy, improving the understanding of the planet's systems.

Through these efforts, Côte d'Ivoire has demonstrated its commitment to contributing to global space initiatives and enhancing its capabilities in space science. As Côte d'Ivoire joins the Artemis Accords, it opens doors for future collaborations in lunar exploration and beyond. The nation’s involvement in this international agreement signifies its aspirations within the African Union and the global community. Looking ahead, this partnership presents opportunities for deeper engagement in advanced space technologies, ensuring Côte d'Ivoire plays a vital role in ongoing exploration and innovation in the realm of space.