Côte d’Ivoire to host Africa’s first space economy expo in 2026

Abidjan gears up to launch Africa Space Expo 2026

From September 24 to 26, 2026, Abidjan will host the inaugural edition of the Africa Space Expo (ASPEX) at the Parc des Expositions. This groundbreaking event, spearheaded by Tidiane Ouattara—a leading space sciences expert at the African Union Commission and ASPEX’s commissioner general—aims to establish the continent’s premier platform for space economy innovation, collaboration, and business opportunities.

« Space is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity, » emphasized Tidiane Ouattara. Modern space technologies now underpin critical sectors including national security, natural resource management, telecommunications, agriculture, land monitoring, and disaster prevention.

Inspired by global tech hubs

ASPEX draws inspiration from world-renowned events like the Paris Air Show and Dubai’s technology forums, uniting researchers, industry leaders, investors, startups, inventors, and policymakers. The goal? To forge strategic partnerships that accelerate Africa’s space sector growth.

« This isn’t just about showcasing technology—it’s about creating tangible business opportunities and building alliances that will shape Africa’s future, » explained the commissioner general.

Market potential worth billions

Organizers highlight the African space market’s current valuation at nearly $30 billion (over 16,683 billion FCFA), a figure that remains largely untapped by the continent’s governments. Through ASPEX, Côte d’Ivoire seeks to emerge as a credible player in this rapidly expanding global sector.

Digital transformation fueled by space tech

Speaking at the event, Djibril Ouattara, Minister of Digital Transition and Technological Innovation, noted that space technologies already impact daily life. « From GPS navigation to mobile banking and internet access, satellite infrastructure is the backbone of modern services, » he stated.

The minister emphasized space tech’s role in Côte d’Ivoire’s digital transformation, including expanding rural connectivity, advancing precision agriculture, enhancing risk management, and improving public service efficiency. He urged African startups and tech firms to leverage satellite data to develop localized, innovative solutions.

Building Africa’s next-generation space workforce

Adama Diawara, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, framed space technology as a cornerstone of 21st-century development. « This isn’t just another sector—it’s a strategic pillar for scientific, economic, and security progress, » he asserted.

The minister called for scaling local expertise by strengthening university programs and research in space sciences and satellite applications. He also praised Côte d’Ivoire’s Space Agency for its pivotal role in organizing the national space ecosystem and coordinating key initiatives.

A continental gathering of innovators

ASPEX 2026 will convene space agencies, governments, technical and financial partners, investors, and innovators from Africa and beyond. The United States and Morocco have been named honorary guest countries.

Paving the way for Africa’s space future

For Tidiane Ouattara, ASPEX marks a pivotal milestone in Africa’s space journey. « This event will help structure our space market, attract investment, and foster industrial alliances that position Africa as a global player, » he concluded.