Emirati high-tech company Space42 has signed a cooperation agreement with Microsoft and Esri as part of the Map Africa Initiative—a project aimed at creating the largest and most accurate geospatial database of the African continent.

The initiative will cover all 54 African countries, providing over 1.4 billion people with access to up-to-date mapping data.

Space42 will lead the project, supplying satellite imagery, AI-powered terrain digitization, and advanced analytics. The new maps are expected to transform key sectors—from urban planning to emergency response—across African nations.

Beyond technological innovation, the initiative will also strengthen strategic partnerships between the UAE and Africa.