Opportunities of Using Space Technology to Enhance Border Security in South Africa

Abstract

The failure of the South African border security authorities to provide effective border security continues to be a national security concern. The inability to provide effective border security is due to factors such as ineffective methods of controlling and monitoring the borders. The aim of this study was to examine the practicability of employing space technology to address identified border security constraints. The study focused on border security authorities and the space technology sector in South Africa. To achieve this objective, a qualitative research methodology was used to ascertain the issues and constraints of border security in South Africa as well as the possibilities of utilising space technology to address border security constraints in South Africa. Findings indicate that there is a need to utilise space technology in South Africa to enhance the level of border security.