Côte d’Ivoire’s ambition: becoming a continental space economy hub

Abidjan is set to host the inaugural Africa Space Expo (ASPEX) from September 24 to 26, 2026, at its Exhibition Park. This landmark continental gathering will focus on the rapidly expanding space economy and 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, collaboration, and business prospects within the dynamic space sector.

“Space is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity,” emphasized Tidiane Ouattara. He highlighted the strategic importance of space technologies across numerous critical fields, including national security, natural resource management, telecommunications, precision agriculture, territorial monitoring, and disaster prevention.

Drawing inspiration from major international events like the Paris-Le Bourget International Air and Space Show and Dubai’s technology forums, the Africa Space Expo intends to bring together researchers, industry leaders, investors, startups, innovators, and policymakers. The goal is to forge impactful partnerships that will significantly benefit the African continent.

“This initiative is not merely about showcasing technologies; it’s fundamentally about generating tangible business opportunities and cultivating strategic alliances for Africa’s progress,” the Commissioner General clarified.

Organizers estimate Africa’s current space market value at nearly $30 billion, equivalent to over 16,683 billion FCFA. This vast potential remains largely untapped by African nations. Through ASPEX, Côte d’Ivoire aims to establish itself as a significant and credible participant in this rapidly expanding global economy.

Speaking at the event, Djibril Ouattara, Minister of Digital Transition and Technological Innovation, highlighted how space technology is already an integral part of daily life for citizens. “Everyday activities, from GPS navigation and mobile money transfers to internet access, rely partly on satellite infrastructure. Space is already deeply embedded in our lives,” he stated.

The Minister further underscored the pivotal role of space technologies in Côte d’Ivoire’s digital transformation. He specifically mentioned their capacity to enhance connectivity in rural areas, foster the growth of precision agriculture, optimize risk management strategies, and boost the efficiency of public services.

He also encouraged African startups, developers, and technology companies to more extensively leverage satellite data to create novel, innovative services tailored to local needs and realities.

Meanwhile, Adama Diawara, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, articulated space as a critical strategic imperative for Africa’s future. “We are not discussing just another technology; we are talking about a fundamental pillar for the scientific, economic, and security development of the 21st century,” he asserted.

The Minister particularly emphasized the urgent need to cultivate a substantial pool of local expertise. This involves strengthening university programs and scientific research in fields directly related to space sciences and satellite applications.

He further commended the Côte d’Ivoire Space Agency for its instrumental role in structuring the Ivorian space ecosystem and coordinating national initiatives.

This inaugural ASPEX event will convene numerous space agencies, governmental bodies, technical and financial partners, investors, and innovation stakeholders from across Africa and beyond. The United States and Morocco have been designated as the honored guest countries.

According to Tidiane Ouattara, this event represents a crucial milestone in the development of a robust African space industry. “Africa is finally equipping itself with a platform capable of structuring its space market, attracting significant investments, and fostering vital industrial alliances,” he concluded.