The Rise of Defence Exhibitions in Africa: A Spotlight on AFRIDEX and AAD
As we approach the final quarter of next year, the African continent is poised to host a pair of significant defence exhibitions that underline the region’s growing importance in the global defence industry. Scheduled back-to-back, these exhibitions—the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) in South Africa and the AFRIDEX in Nigeria—are not just events; they are milestones in showcasing African innovation and collaboration within the defense sector.
AAD: South Africa’s Long-Standing Defence Exhibition
From September 16 to 20, the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) exhibition will be held at Air Force Base (AFB) Waterkloof in Centurion. As one of the continent’s largest and longest-standing defence and aerospace exhibitions, AAD serves as a vital hub for industry stakeholders, including military officials, government representatives, and technology innovators. Organized by a coalition that includes the SA Aerospace, Maritime and Defence Industries Association (AMD), Armscor, and the South African Department of Defence, this event represents a legacy of excellence in the sector.
AAD takes pride in its ability to connect African and international partners, extending its influence beyond borders. According to the event organizers, the increase in defence and aerospace events across Africa signifies a maturing industry that is gaining global recognition. This emerging trend reflects a growing commitment to collaboration, capability, and industrial growth within the continent’s defence landscape.
AFRIDEX: Nigeria’s New Defence Front
Following AAD, Nigeria will host the inaugural AFRIDEX from October 26 to 29 in the capital city. Co-hosted by the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) and dmg Events, this exhibition aims to establish itself as Africa’s premier defence and security platform. DICON and dmg Events formalized their partnership earlier this year with a memorandum of understanding, highlighting their commitment to advancing Nigeria’s defence capabilities.
AFRIDEX promises to gather an impressive assembly of global leaders, innovators, and policymakers, all focused on enhancing continental security. The exhibition will feature local and international defence companies showcasing a wide array of products, from armoured vehicles and aircraft to advanced weaponry and drones.
A Collaborative Environment: Shared Goals and Opportunities
Both AAD and AFRIDEX underscore a collective vision of collaboration and innovation. AAD’s organizers view AFRIDEX as part of a broader ecosystem of African defence events that collectively enhance the continent’s global standing. The positive affirmation of this vision speaks volumes about the spirit of collaboration amongst African nations—a sentiment echoed in DICON’s commitment to promoting knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and boosting Africa’s reputation in the defence arena.
AFRIDEX 2026 is set to attract a staggering 30,000 international attendees and 500 global exhibitors, making it a central hub for defence and security discourse. The exhibition will not just be an exhibition of products but will include Leadership Roundtables, a Defence Summit focusing on Africa’s security future, and various workshops and training sessions aimed at turning ideas into actionable strategies.
Expectations and Impact: The Future of Defence Exhibitions
Both exhibitions are projected to draw massive crowds. AAD anticipates 30,000 trade visitors along with over 350 exhibitors, while AFRIDEX expects 200 international speakers and 15 national pavilions. The scale of these events illustrates a burgeoning interest in defense matters, positioning Africa as an essential player in the global defence landscape.
Both organizers are striving to create a collaborative environment that inspires innovation and cultivates partnerships. For instance, the Hosted Buyer Programme at AFRIDEX will connect delegations seeking to source equipment and explore partnerships with local manufacturers, thereby fostering a sense of community and shared growth.
In summary, as defence exhibitions like AAD and AFRIDEX take center stage, they highlight not only the advancements within the African defence sector but also the potential for greater international collaboration. The stage is set for dynamic interactions that will shape the future of defence capabilities in Africa and beyond.