Côte d’Ivoire’s ambitious journey to become africa’s space economy hub

Abidjan is set to host the inaugural Africa Space Expo (ASPEX) from September 24 to 26, 2026, at its Parc des Expositions. This landmark continental gathering will focus on the burgeoning space economy and advanced satellite technologies. Spearheaded by Tidiane Ouattara, a distinguished space science expert at the African Union Commission and the event’s Commissioner General, ASPEX aims to establish itself as a premier African platform for fostering innovation, promoting cooperation, and unveiling business prospects within the dynamic space sector.

“Space is no longer a luxury; it is a fundamental necessity,” affirmed Tidiane Ouattara. He underscored the critical strategic role that space technologies now play across numerous vital sectors, including national security, sustainable natural resource management, telecommunications infrastructure, precision agriculture, territorial monitoring, and proactive disaster prevention.

Drawing inspiration from globally recognized events like the Paris-Le Bourget International Air and Space Show and Dubai’s prominent technology forums, the Africa Space Expo is designed to bring together a diverse array of stakeholders. This includes leading researchers, industry titans, keen investors, innovative startups, visionary inventors, and influential policymakers, all collaborating to forge impactful partnerships crucial for the continent’s progress.

The Commissioner General clarified, stating, “Our objective extends beyond merely showcasing technologies; it is to cultivate tangible business opportunities and construct strategic alliances that will benefit Africa.”

Organizers project the current African space market to be valued at nearly $30 billion, which translates to over 16,683 billion FCFA. This represents a vast, yet largely untapped, potential across African nations. Through the platform of ASPEX, Côte d’Ivoire strategically aims to establish itself as a credible and significant participant in this rapidly expanding global space economy.

Addressing the audience, Djibril Ouattara, the Minister of Digital Transition and Technological Innovation, highlighted how space technology is already an integral part of everyday life for citizens. He affirmed, “Every daily activity, from GPS navigation and mobile money transfers to internet access, relies in part on satellite infrastructure. Space is already woven into our lives.”

The Minister further emphasized the pivotal role of space technologies in driving Côte d’Ivoire’s digital transformation. This includes critical advancements such as enhancing connectivity in rural areas, fostering the growth of precision agriculture, streamlining risk management protocols, and boosting the overall efficiency of public services.

He also extended an invitation to African startups, developers, and technology firms, urging them to more fully leverage satellite data. The goal is to innovate and create novel services that are specifically tailored to address local needs and realities.

Meanwhile, Adama Diawara, the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, articulated space as a paramount strategic imperative for Africa’s future. He asserted, “We are not discussing just another technology, but rather a fundamental pillar for scientific, economic, and security development in the 21st century.”

The Minister particularly stressed the urgent need to cultivate a critical mass of local expertise. This will be achieved by strengthening university curricula and scientific research initiatives specifically within the fields of space sciences and their diverse satellite applications.

He also lauded the significant contributions of the Côte d’Ivoire Space Agency for its instrumental role in structuring the Ivorian space ecosystem and effectively coordinating national endeavors.

This inaugural ASPEX event is poised to convene a wide array of participants, including various space agencies, governmental bodies, technical and financial partners, investors, and innovation drivers from across Africa and beyond. Notably, the United States and Morocco have been designated as the esteemed guest countries of honor.

According to Tidiane Ouattara, this event signifies a momentous milestone in the establishment of a robust African space industry. He concluded by stating, “Africa is finally equipping itself with a dedicated platform capable of structuring its space market, attracting vital investments, and fostering crucial industrial alliances.”