The first-ever Africa Space Expo (ASPEX), a groundbreaking continental event focused on space economy and satellite technologies, will take place in Abidjan from September 24 to 26, 2026, at the Parc des Expositions. Spearheaded by Tidiane Ouattara, a leading space science expert at the African Union Commission and General Commissioner of ASPEX, this initiative aims to establish a premier African platform for innovation, collaboration, and business opportunities in the space sector.
« Space is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity, » emphasized Tidiane Ouattara, highlighting the critical role of space technologies in sectors such as security, natural resource management, telecommunications, agriculture, territorial surveillance, and disaster prevention. The event seeks to mirror global tech forums like Paris-Le Bourget’s aerospace exhibition or Dubai’s tech summits by bringing together researchers, industry leaders, investors, startups, inventors, and policymakers to forge impactful partnerships for Africa.
The African space market is currently valued at nearly $30 billion (over 16,683 billion FCFA), yet remains largely untapped by African nations. Through ASPEX, Côte d’Ivoire is positioning itself as a key player in this rapidly expanding global industry.
Djibril Ouattara, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Digital Transition and Technological Innovation, underscored the ubiquity of space technologies in daily life. « Everyday uses like GPS navigation, mobile transfers, and internet access rely on satellite infrastructure—space is already woven into our lives, » he noted. He also highlighted the transformative potential of space tech in Côte d’Ivoire, including enhancing rural connectivity, advancing precision agriculture, optimizing risk management, and streamlining public services.
The minister further urged African startups, developers, and tech companies to harness satellite data to create innovative, locally tailored services that address the continent’s unique challenges.
Adama Diawara, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, framed space technology as a cornerstone for the continent’s future. « This isn’t just another technology—it’s a cornerstone of 21st-century scientific, economic, and security development, » he stated. He stressed the urgent need to cultivate local expertise by expanding university programs and research initiatives in space sciences and satellite applications.
Diawara also praised the Côte d’Ivoire Space Agency for its role in structuring the nation’s space ecosystem and coordinating national initiatives.
The inaugural ASPEX will convene space agencies, governments, technical and financial partners, investors, and innovators from across Africa and beyond. The United States and Morocco have been designated as honorary guest countries.
For Tidiane Ouattara, ASPEX represents a milestone in Africa’s space ambitions. « This event marks a pivotal step toward building a robust African space industry, » he said. « Africa now has a platform to organize its space market, attract investments, and foster industrial alliances that will shape the continent’s future. »