The African Union (AU), the body that unites all 54 African nations, has a critical role to play in leadership in the adoption of GIS policies across the continent. Additionally, Africa has nations that have already launched their own satellites, including Algeria, Nigeria, South Africa and Egypt. Nodes should be formed based on each region of Africa, and these satellite-launching countries should provide mentorship for nascent space programs for these nodes. A fund based on AU member countries, development partners and the private sector can be established so that nascent space programs can develop and possibly more joint space programs can take root in Africa. Furthermore, greater sharing of expertise, data and images, including training in GIS among African countries, will reduce the bargaining power of image producers and the cost of images will be more affordable in the long run. Most GIS initiatives in Africa are donor-funded and set up as projects that have a schedule and deadline. During the 2007/2008 financial crisis, some African countries were unable to access finance for existing and new development projects due to donor countries having a “credit crunch” in their home countries. It is imperative that African countries contribute financially, technically and have the political will to ensure it