ShieldAfrica Expo's Future in Morocco
According to a report by Africa Intelligence, the African defense exhibition, ShieldAfrica, may soon be relocated to Morocco. The organizers are keen on reviving the African edition of the event, which was interrupted in 2021. Previously held in Ivory Coast, the expo is anticipated to resurge near Casablanca, adopting an even more ambitious format. This potential move is spearheaded by COGES Events, a French company specializing in defense event organization. The initiative aligns with Morocco's strategic goal of establishing itself as a key industrial defense hub in Africa. Conversations are reportedly underway to relaunch the exhibition, aiming for a 2029 debut.
As a backdrop, COGES Events had previously announced the cancellation of the 2023 edition of ShieldAfrica. At that time, the organizers explained that the unavailability of the Abidjan Police School, the usual venue for the event, prompted COGES Africa to consider relocating to the new Exhibition Park in the capital before ultimately canceling the edition altogether.
Benslimane Emerges as a Strong Contender for Venue
The city of Benslimane, which already boasts an industrial zone dedicated to defense, is emerging as a potential location for this defense exhibition. International companies, including the American aerospace giant Lockheed Martin and the Turkish drone manufacturer Baykar, have already established industrial units in the area. Furthermore, Moroccan Ambassador to Ivory Coast, Othman El Ferdaous, met with Ivorian Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, Téné Birahima Ouattara, to discuss further collaboration in defense matters.
Since 2008, Morocco has been the host of the Marrakech Air Show, an event primarily focused on the aerospace and aeronautics sector, further showcasing the nation's commitment to growing its defense and aerospace industries.
As reported by es.yabiladi.com.
