Africa Automation Technology Fair 2025 Closes on a High Note: Africa’s Premier Automation & AI Expo Champions Human-Centric Innovation, Robotics, and Industrial Transformation
The Africa Automation Technology Fair 2025 (AATF2025), built by RX Africa, officially wrapped up after three dynamic days at Gallagher Convention Centre. Cementing its status as Africa’s leading platform for industrial automation, AI, and the Internet of Things (IoT), the event drew thousands of professionals, innovators, and thought leaders under the banner: “Future Ready, Smart Solutions.”
This year’s edition was not only a showcase of cutting-edge tech but a celebration of innovation with purpose—featuring over 125 exhibitors, 25+ expert speakers, interactive workshops, real-time robotics showcases, and a buzzing show floor that brought Industry 4.0 to life.
Robots in the Spotlight: Pepper and Spot Delight and Educate
A major highlight was the appearance of Pepper, South Africa’s first humanoid robot, who hosted workshops and interacted with delegates to demonstrate the future of human-machine collaboration. Engaging, conversational, and educational, Pepper brought AI to life—especially for students and younger attendees discovering robotics for the first time.
Equally crowd-pleasing was Spot, the agile robotic dog from Boston Dynamics, who made multiple appearances throughout the event. From safety inspections to live demos of industrial applications, Spot captured imaginations and showcased what’s possible when robotics meets real-world industry.
“These activations weren’t just about wow-factor,” noted AATF Portfolio Director Martin Hiller. “They were about showing how automation and AI can be both deeply human and highly practical.”
Turning Insight into Impact
AATF2025 moved well beyond exhibits—delivering three days of strategic conversations around the realities and future of automation in Africa. The programme featured leading voices like Justice Malala, whose opening keynote explored the intersection of technology, politics, and economic transformation.
Delegates gained practical insights into:
- Smart manufacturing through IoT integration (Johan Steyn, AI for Business)
- Cybersecurity frameworks for connected systems (Idani Mulaudzi, Discovery Bank & Pieter Pienaar, Informed Decisions)
- AI-driven intelligent manufacturing (Yanesh Naidoo, Jendamark & Brendan van Staaden, Modata)
- Generative AI in automation (David Osborn, Dassault Systèmes)
- African excellence in vehicle production (Tatenda Mungofa, Mureza Auto Co)
- Circular economy strategies (Michel Mafoumba, Smart Automation Engineering)
- Skills development in Industry 5.0 (Joe Samuels, SAQA)
Purposeful, Inclusive Innovation
One of the defining threads across all three days was the emphasis on human-centric technology. In her Day 3 keynote, Kaluba Chikonde, a Zambian AI Specialist, championed ethical AI frameworks that empower people rather than replace them.
Said Chikonde: “Reliability in AI comes not just from the system, but from the values and intentions of the people who train and guide it.”
With open-access sessions, a free-to-use AATF app, and an intentional focus on bringing in SMEs, startups, and students, AATF2025 was as much about inclusion as innovation.
A Statement from Martin Hiller
“As we close the doors on this landmark edition of AATF, the message is clear,” said Martin Hiller, Portfolio Director for AATF2025. “Africa is not just ready for Industry 4.0—we’re shaping it in our own image. Through collaboration, ethical innovation, and human-first design, we’re building a future that’s smart, inclusive, and proudly African.”
Save the Date: AATF Returns in 2027
📅 11 – 13 May 2027
📍 Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand, South Africa 🔗 Visit: www.africaautomationtechnologyfair.com
