25 June 2026 Botswana became the 68th country, which joined the Artemis Accords. The signing took place at NASA headquarters in Washington.
Botswana's Minister of Communications and Innovation, David Tshere, said, that joining the Agreement
is an important step in promoting safe, transparent and sustainable development of space, as well as for the development of international cooperation within the framework of the single principles of responsible activity.
Botswana is a space newcomer. IN 2025 the country launched its first satellite BOTSAT-1. Signing of Agreements, according to the minister, should facilitate the establishment of a space cooperation working group between Botswana and the United States, as well as strengthening national capabilities.
NASA Deputy Administrator Matt Anderson noted, that all signatories to the Artemis Accords are invited to participate in the construction of a permanent base on the Moon. Mike Gold, President of Redwire Space, emphasized, that space diplomacy within the framework of the Artemis Accords will help the US strengthen relations with African countries, particularly in the context of ensuring access to critical minerals.
Source: https://spacenews.com