• (Ecofin Agency) - First Africa edition of the HANNOVER MESSE network set for September 29–October 1, 2026
• Morocco selected as gateway linking Europe, the U.S. and African markets
• Year-round Smart Factory Academy to support skills development and technology transfer

Global exhibition organizer Deutsche Messe will launch a new industrial technology platform, Industrial Transformation Africa (ITAF), in Morocco from September 29 to October 1, 2026, marking the expansion of its flagship HANNOVER MESSE network onto the continent. The event, to be held in Casablanca, aims to connect international technology providers with African manufacturers, investors and policymakers as the region accelerates adoption of automation, robotics and digital production systems, according to organizers.

The initiative comes as African economies seek to move up global value chains through advanced manufacturing and industrial digitalization. Organizers say ITAF will focus on “smart factory” technologies, including industrial automation, artificial intelligence, intralogistics and energy systems, targeting companies looking to enter or expand in African markets at an early stage of industrial transformation.

Alongside the exhibition, the company will establish the Smart Factory Academy Casablanca, a permanent training and demonstration platform offering workshops, factory visits and technical programs throughout the year. The academy is designed to address skills gaps in advanced manufacturing while maintaining continuous engagement with industry stakeholders beyond the exhibition dates.

Chief executive Dr. Jochen Köckler described Africa as “a rapidly expanding and strategically vital market for industry,” noting that the combined exhibition and academy model strengthens the global HANNOVER MESSE network’s long-term presence on the continent. ITAF organizers say Morocco was selected because of its strategic position at the crossroads of Europe, Africa and the Middle East, strong logistics infrastructure, and deep integration into global trade networks. The country’s extensive free-trade agreements with the European Union, the United States and African partners provide companies operating from Morocco with access to a consumer base exceeding one billion people. Casablanca, the host city, is the country’s industrial and financial hub, home to major automotive, aerospace and electronics manufacturers as well as major port and air connections.

Government initiatives such as the Digital Morocco 2030 strategy are accelerating the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies across manufacturing, logistics and energy sectors, reinforcing the country’s role as a regional platform for advanced production. Organizers say these factors make Morocco an ideal entry point for international firms seeking to serve both North African and sub-Saharan markets.

Industrial Transformation Africa will operate under a “365-day” engagement model that includes the NextGen Manufacturing Summit, a forum for policymakers and industry leaders and ongoing training and pitching programs through the academy, aiming to foster technology transfer, partnerships and investment across Africa’s industrial ecosystem.

By Cynthia Ebot Takang