Abidjan is set to host the inaugural Africa Space Expo (ASPEX) from September 24 to 26, 2026, at the Parc des Expositions. This landmark event, spearheaded by Tidiane Ouattara—a leading space science expert at the African Union Commission and ASPEX’s commissioner general—aims to establish a premier continental platform for space economy innovation, collaboration, and business opportunities.
« Space is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity,» emphasized Tidiane Ouattara, highlighting how satellite technologies now underpin critical sectors such as national security, natural resource management, telecommunications, agriculture, territorial monitoring, and disaster prevention.
The event draws inspiration from world-renowned gatherings like the Paris Air Show and Dubai’s tech forums, uniting researchers, industry leaders, investors, startups, inventors, and policymakers to forge strategic partnerships across Africa.
« This isn’t just about showcasing technology—it’s about unlocking tangible business opportunities and building alliances that will shape Africa’s future,» noted the commissioner general.
The African space market, valued at nearly $30 billion (over 16,683 billion FCFA), remains vastly untapped. By hosting ASPEX, Côte d’Ivoire aims to position itself as a credible player in this rapidly expanding global sector.
Digital transformation in focus
Djibril Ouattara, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Digital Transition and Technological Innovation, underscored the everyday impact of space technologies: « From GPS navigation to mobile payments and internet access, satellite infrastructure is already embedded in daily life.»
He highlighted how space tech is driving Côte d’Ivoire’s digital transformation, including expanding rural connectivity, advancing precision agriculture, enhancing risk management, and improving public service efficiency. The minister also urged African startups and tech firms to leverage satellite data to develop localized, innovative services.
Building Africa’s space talent pipeline
Adama Diawara, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, framed space technology as a cornerstone of 21st-century development: « This isn’t just another technology—it’s a foundational pillar for scientific, economic, and security progress.»
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 Côte d’Ivoire’s Space Agency for its role in organizing the national space ecosystem and coordinating key initiatives.
A platform for global collaboration
ASPEX’s first edition will bring together space agencies, governments, technical and financial partners, investors, and innovators from across Africa and beyond. The United States and Morocco have been announced as honorary guest countries.
For Tidiane Ouattara, ASPEX represents a milestone in Africa’s space journey: « This event will structure the continent’s space market, attract investment, and foster industrial alliances—finally giving Africa the platform it needs to thrive in the global space economy.»
