From September 24 to 26, 2026, the Parc des Expositions in Abidjan will host the inaugural edition of the Africa Space Expo (ASPEX). This major continental event, dedicated to the space economy and satellite technologies, is spearheaded by Tidiane Ouattara, a space science expert at the African Union Commission and the event’s Commissioner General. ASPEX aims to become the leading African platform for innovation, international cooperation, and commercial growth within the space sector.
“Space is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity,” stated Tidiane Ouattara. He noted that satellite technologies now play a vital role in strategic areas such as national security, resource management, telecommunications, agriculture, and disaster prevention.
Modeled after prestigious global events like the Paris-Le Bourget International Air and Space Show or Dubai technology forums, the Africa Space Expo seeks to bring together scientists, industrial leaders, investors, and policymakers. The objective is to foster structural partnerships across the continent.
“The goal is not just to showcase technology, but to generate real business opportunities and establish strategic alliances for Africa,” the Commissioner General explained.
According to the organizers, the African space market is currently valued at nearly $30 billion, which exceeds 16,683 billion FCFA. This represents a significant potential that African nations have yet to fully exploit. Through ASPEX, Côte d’Ivoire intends to establish itself as a major player in this expanding global industry.
Djibril Ouattara, Minister of Digital Transition and Technological Innovation, highlighted that space technology is already a part of everyday life. “Our daily activities, including GPS navigation, mobile money transfers, and internet access, rely heavily on satellite infrastructure. Space is already integrated into our lives,” he remarked.
The Minister also emphasized the importance of space tools in driving Côte d’Ivoire’s digital transformation, specifically for enhancing rural connectivity, advancing precision agriculture, and improving the efficiency of public services. He encouraged African startups and developers to utilize satellite data to create innovative services tailored to local needs.
Furthermore, Adama Diawara, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, described the space sector as a critical strategic priority for the continent’s future. “We are discussing a pillar of 21st-century scientific, economic, and security development,” he asserted.
Minister Diawara stressed the need to develop local talent by strengthening university curricula and research in space sciences. He also commended the Côte d’Ivoire Space Agency for its efforts in organizing the national space ecosystem and coordinating local initiatives.
This first edition of ASPEX will feature participation from various space agencies, governments, and financial partners from around the world. The United States and Morocco have been designated as the guests of honor for this landmark event.
For Tidiane Ouattara, this gathering represents a pivotal moment in the development of a genuine African space industry. “Africa is finally creating a platform capable of organizing its space market, attracting investment, and encouraging industrial cooperation,” he concluded.
