Supported ventures

African Science Stars

African Science Stars (Pty) Ltd

Brands: African Science Stars

Flagship product: Telecommunications and Network Optimization Using Earth Observation Satellites for the African Market

Founding team: Nonopha Kanise, Dr Naledzani Ndou, Mr Jacky Kotane, Mr Glen Masela, Mr Madambi Rambuda

Application: Optimizing the placement of telecommunications infrastructure in underserved regions, enhancing digital inclusion and reducing deployment risk

Sector/Industry: Community-based services

Subsector: Security and defence and Telecommunication and Fibre Networks

Year founded and commenced operations: 2020

Year partnered with TuksNovation: 2025

Email address: info@sciencestars.co.za

Website: africansciencestars.com

Description

African Science Stars (Pty) Ltd proposes leveraging Earth observation satellite data to optimize the placement of communication towers and fibre-optic networks.

This technology aims to provide telecommunication companies and governments with insights to expand network coverage efficiently and sustainably in rural and township areas, addressing unreliable network coverage.

The application will also monitor installations to prevent vandalism and theft, enhancing infrastructure security and facilitating digital inclusion across Africa.

Growth Objectives

Enhance telecommunications connectivity across South Africa and the African continent by facilitating digital inclusion in underserved communities. This will be achieved by optimizing telecom infrastructure placement through real-time data on geographical, environmental, and population dynamics from Earth observation satellites, leading to reduced costs, expanded coverage, and enhanced reliability.

Differentiation/Value Proposition

The venture’s value lies in:

  • Using EO data to reduce infrastructure deployment risk in rural and underserved areas.
  • Supporting data-driven decision-making for telecom asset placement.
  • Aligning with national development goals for digital access and inclusion.
  • Offering a scalable platform adaptable to multiple African geographies.
  • Enabling cost-effective infrastructure rollouts through geospatial optimization.

Business Stage/Phase

African Science Stars is in the early development phase:

  • Concept validated with strong EO technical team.
  • Requires incubation to refine telecom integration and commercial model.
  • Positioned for pilot testing and stakeholder engagement.
  • The project involves proof of concept, product/process/prototype development, piloting and conducting field studies, business support and advisory, IP protection, and technical assistance.

Investment Stage/Phase

The venture is seeking pre-seed support to:

  • Clarify EO data processing workflows.
  • Strengthen telecom sector alignment.
  • Develop a commercially viable business case.
  • Prepare for pilot implementation and market entry.

Investment Raised

  • Own funds invested by the Founders to fund startup and operational expenses.
  • SANSA NEOFrontiers Cohort 2 in collaboration with Tuksnovation – R1,000,000.