Côte d’Ivoire to host Africa’s first space economy expo in 2026
The first-ever Africa Space Expo (ASPEX) is set to take place in Abidjan from September 24 to 26, 2026, at the Parc des Expositions. This landmark event will serve as a continental platform focused on space economy and satellite technologies, positioning the Côte d’Ivoire as a rising hub for innovation and business in the sector.
Why space technology is no longer optional for Africa
According to Tidiane Ouattara, Commissioner-General of ASPEX and Space Science Expert at the African Union Commission, space technologies have evolved from a luxury to a necessity. « The space sector now underpins critical areas such as national security, natural resource management, telecommunications, agriculture, land monitoring, and disaster prevention, » he emphasized.
The event draws inspiration from global tech forums like the Paris Air Show and Dubai Technology Week, aiming to bring together researchers, industry leaders, investors, startups, inventors, and policymakers to forge meaningful partnerships across Africa.
« ASPEX is not just about showcasing technology—it’s about creating real business opportunities and building strategic alliances that will define Africa’s future in space, » Ouattara stated.
The African space market: a $30 billion opportunity
Organizers highlight that Africa’s space economy is currently valued at nearly $30 billion—over 16,683 billion FCFA—a figure that remains vastly untapped by many African nations. Through ASPEX, Côte d’Ivoire is positioning itself as a credible player in this rapidly growing global industry.
How space tech is already shaping daily life in Côte d’Ivoire
Djibril Ouattara, Minister of Digital Transition and Technological Innovation, pointed out that space technologies are already embedded in everyday activities. « GPS navigation, mobile banking, and internet access all depend on satellite infrastructure. Space is not in the future—it’s already in our lives, » he noted.
He stressed the role of space tech in driving Côte d’Ivoire’s digital transformation, including:
- Expanding internet connectivity in rural areas
- Supporting precision agriculture
- Enhancing risk management and disaster response
- Boosting efficiency in public services
The minister also called on African startups, developers, and tech companies to leverage satellite data to create tailored, innovative services that address local challenges.
Building Africa’s future through space science and education
Adama Diawara, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, framed space technology as a cornerstone of the continent’s development. « This is not just another technology—it’s a pillar of scientific, economic, and security progress in the 21st century, » he declared.
Diawara emphasized the urgent need for developing local expertise by strengthening university programs and research in space sciences and satellite applications. He also praised the Ivorian Space Agency for its role in organizing the national space ecosystem and coordinating key initiatives.
ASPEX 2026: a continental gathering with global reach
The inaugural ASPEX will convene space agencies, governments, technical partners, financiers, investors, and innovators from across Africa and beyond. The United States and Morocco have been named honorary guest countries, underscoring the event’s international significance.
Tidiane Ouattara sees ASPEX as a historic milestone in Africa’s space journey. « For the first time, Africa has a platform capable of structuring its space market, attracting investment, and fostering industrial alliances on a continental scale, » he said.
