Africa’s automation and process control landscape is set for a milestone moment with the launch of the Africa Automation Indaba, taking place from
Billed as a landmark conference for automation, process control and industrial digitalisation, the Indaba aims to become Africa’s flagship platform for shaping the future of manufacturing and competitiveness. Over two days, delegates will engage in high-level dialogue, explore new technologies and develop strategies to unlock the continent’s automation potential.
“The Indaba will be the go-to forum for those passionate about shaping Africa’s automation future through innovation and collaboration,” says event director, Hanli Goncalves. “We’re bringing together visionaries who see automation not as a luxury, but as a necessity for sustainable growth and global relevance.”
A relationship built on success
RX Africa will once again partner with SA Instrumentation & Control (Technews Publishing) as a key media partner for the indaba, further strengthening a relationship built on previous successful collaborations. This partnership underscores both organisations’ commitment to advancing automation, smart manufacturing and industrial innovation across Africa. The event is also endorsed by the Society for Automation, Instrumentation, Mechatronics and Computer Engineering (SAIMC).
A strategic platform for growth
The Indaba focuses on the economic, governmental and investment forces driving automation adoption. The programme features keynotes, panel discussions, case studies and fireside chats, covering themes such as:
• High-growth sectors and regions for automation
• Policy frameworks and incentives for innovation
• Financing automation projects
• Building Africa’s STEM and automation talent pipeline
• IIoT, digitalisation and smart manufacturing readiness
• Localisation, sustainability and renewable integration
Each session will deliver actionable insight from founders, CEOs, policymakers and financiers shaping automation in African markets.
Day 1: Vision and policy
The first day centres on vision and strategic growth, opening with a keynote on ‘Powering Africa’s Industrial Future: The Case for Automation.’ Panels will explore sectoral growth, policy reform and investment realities, while the day concludes with a networking wine tasting for delegates to connect with investors, government and technology suppliers.
Day 2: Technology and talent
The second day focuses on implementation and skills. Sessions highlight Africa’s readiness for digitalisation, IIoT and smart manufacturing, with case studies from mining, energy, and food processing. A dedicated session will examine how partnerships between industry, academia and government can close the automation skills gap. Panels will also explore localisation, decarbonisation and resource efficiency. The event concludes with a Founder Insight fireside chat, where entrepreneurs share lessons from scaling automation ventures across Africa.
Industry thought leaders on stage
Among the headline speakers is Pieter Geldenhuys, futurist and innovation strategist, presenting ‘Smart Manufacturing, IIoT and Digitalisation – Is Africa Ready?’ His session will analyse how digital transformation can drive sustainable competitiveness.
Hosted by Vuyolwethu ‘Vuyo’ Dubese, a renowned innovation consultant and global moderator, the Indaba promises a vibrant, inclusive and stimulating atmosphere throughout both days. Delegates can expect thought-provoking analysis and actionable strategies to advance smart manufacturing.
Opportunities to participate
The Africa Automation Indaba offers multiple participation avenues, from delegate attendance to exhibition and sponsorship packages. Delegate rates are set at R6500 (South Africa) and $550 (international) for the two-day conference. Exhibitor packages available at a cost of R32 500 include a 4 m2 meeting pod, branding and full delegate access, while sponsorship opportunities ranging from R10 000 upwards offer branding visibility, panel participation and prime exposure across the venue and media channels. Rates exclude VAT. Sponsors also benefit from access to the opt-in delegate list, extensive pre- and post-event media features, and opportunities for exclusive branding during networking functions.
A movement, not just a meeting
More than a conference, the Africa Automation Indaba positions itself as a movement to catalyse Africa’s industrial future. As automation, AI and smart technologies redefine global production systems, Africa faces both challenge and the opportunity to leapfrog legacy systems and build smarter, more sustainable industries from the ground up. “Automation is the backbone of modern industry. Our goal is to ensure Africa is not merely catching up, but also leading in areas where innovation, agility and collaboration give us a competitive edge,” says Goncalves.
For more information contact Hanli Goncalves, RX Africa,
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