For extensive scientific works, research: Cameroonian, Frankline Bokanda, shines at NASA.

The award-winning researcher in Mars analog science-astrobiology at Botswana International University of Science and Technology, BIUST, was given the position for his extensive and scientifically proven work carried out. 

According to Bokanda, the position is thanks to his research in the Makgadikgadi basin which introduced him to giants in the field of space and planetary science both in Europe and United States of America.  

Bokanda disclosed that he spoke on the topic Geomicrobiology of the concretions of the of the Makgadikgadi pan in Botswana, in an astrobiology perspective. 

The position, according to Bokanda, is not his first entry into NASA as he was once invited as lead speaker for Analogy and Future Exploration for Science and Planetary Protection in Advance of Human Missions workshop in the Office of NASA’s Safety and Mission Assurance Centre. 

Bokanda disclosed that during his first invitation to NASA he spoke on the topic, “outsourcing mars analog sites in preparation for human-mars exploration and planetary protection protocols”. 

Position a dream come true

Speaking to The Guardian Post, Bokanda stated that working with NASA is a dream come true, which will permit him to learn and also showcase his skills and expertise.

“It is a dream come true for me, to be part of the pioneers of space exploration. I am confident that the knowledge and expertise gained during these collaborations will open more incentives for the-to-be formed Cameroon Institute of Space Exploration,” Bokanda said.

He highlighted the need for the government to create avenues in Space and Astrophysics for other individuals like him who intend to study and become prolific researchers in the future. 

The award-winning researcher further emphasised that the position is a clear indication of his unique combination of scientific acumen and pioneering spirit that will continue to yield significant contributions to the science community.

Frankline Bokanda’s unique journey

Frankline Bokanda’s has, through hard work and constant research and field work, risen to stand out among other researchers working in space and other astrophysics activities. 

His academic career began in Government Bilingual High School, GBHS, Mundemba in Ndian Division, South West Region. He later moved to the University of Yaounde I, where obtained Bachelor of Science degree in geoscience and later did a postgraduate study in sedimentology and petroleum geosciences. 

On completing his Masters I & II, he got a fully funded scholarship from Pan-African Planetary and Space Science Network, PAPSSN. During the programme, he got another fully funded research opportunity by Erasmus at University of Bologna in Italy to be mentored by Europe’s chief coordinator for astrobiology, Prof Barbara Cavalazzi and project correspondent, Prof Fulvio Franchi.  

Bokanda was issued an award of excellence by the Cameroon Association of Sedimentology’s, CAMASED, in October 2024, in recognition of his scientific achievements at the very early stage of his career. 

In addition, these achievements are not purely academic milestones, they are clear indicators of Bokanda's zeal and expertise in conducting innovative research, secure competitive funding, and disseminate his findings on a global platform. 

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3520 of Friday August 01, 2025