Africa's Role in the Global Space Economy with Davis Cook

Meet Davis Cook, the CEO of RIIS (Research Institute For Innovation and Sustainability), the largest innovation advisory firm in Africa. With his extensive experience in strategy, innovation, and development, Davis has become a key figure in shaping Africa's burgeoning space economy. Based in Kenya, he not only leads RIIS and its East Africa activities but also contributes significantly to the Anza group, including Anza Capital, a venture capital fund, and the South African Innovation Summit, a major startup event. His past roles as Chairperson for ZASpace and recognition as a Karman Fellow and an M&G 200 Young South African Leader underline his influential presence in the space sector.

In this episode, Davis Cook delves into Africa's dynamic role in the global space economy. He discusses the continent's strategic approach to space, moving beyond traditional roles to unlock new possibilities. Davis provides a comprehensive view of Africa’s efforts in building local space capabilities, the implications of these developments for global technology and how they tackle Earth-centric challenges. He shares insights from his diverse professional journey, spanning strategy consulting, public sector roles, startups, and corporate experiences across multiple continents, and how his work at RIIS is crucial in developing major innovation ecosystems in sectors like mining, energy, and space across Africa.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Davis's journey from physics to leading in the space industry.

• The evolving space economy's potential for new opportunities.

• The impact of emerging space nations on the global stage.

• Opportunities beyond engineering: law, design, filmmaking in space.

• The importance of networking within the space community.

Quotes:

"Space is no longer the final frontier but the next frontier. It’s an area ripe for exploration, not just geographically, but for professional and personal growth.”
- Davis Cook

Episode Links:
Connect with Davis on LinkedIn
Research Institute For Innovation and Sustainability
Follow RIIS on LinkedIn
Follow Inter Astra on LinkedIn

Credits:
Production by CxS Partners LTD
Executive Producer: Toby Goodman
Audio & Sound Design: Lee Turner
Artwork: Ryan Field

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