Africa’s drone ecosystem is no longer emerging; it’s now operational, regulated and commercially active. Drones are solving real-world problems across agriculture, conservation, logistics, mapping, and security. That momentum will be on full display in 2026, with a strong lineup of drone conferences and UAV-focused expos across East, West, and Southern Africa.
This regional guide breaks down the most important drone and aerospace events in Africa in 2026, curated from Drone Industry Insights and other relevant sources. It is also a companion to our main article, Global Drone Events 2026.
Why Africa’s Drone Events Are Now More Important Than Ever?
Different from other mature markets where drones are competing for incremental advantage, Africa’s drone sector is largely driven by need and scale in:
- Wildlife protection and conservation
- National mapping and land Administration
- Agriculture and food security
- Inspection of infrastructure in easily and not easily accessible areas
- Disaster response and humanitarian logistics
As local operations become formalised and regulations stabilise, drone events in Africa are no longer just showcases but deal-making platforms.
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Key Drone & Aerospace Events in Africa – 2026
Drone Ignite Africa – 2026 (Accra, Ghana)
Dates: February 10-11, 2026
Location: Accra, Ghana
Drone Ignite Africa is a leading initiative dedicated to accelerating the adoption and impact of Drone, AI and Robotics technology in Africa. The event unites various stakeholders to harness drones’ potential across mining, agriculture, logistics, health, security, and infrastructure sectors. Event focus will be on:
- Fostering local and global collaboration
- Advancing sustainable innovation across Africa
- Empowering youth and women
- Live drone demonstrations
- Strategic keynotes & industry panels
- Tech exhibitions & startup innovation zones
- Strategic keynotes & industry panels
- Drone photography competition
Global Conservation Tech & Drone Forum – Kenya (GCTDF 2026)
Dates: March 2 -6, 2026
Location: Trademark Hotel – Nairobi & Konza Technopolis, Kenya
The GCTDF 2026 in Kenya is uniting conservationists, technologists, and leaders to leverage innovation for environmental protection, coinciding with World Wildlife Day and emphasizing Africa’s role in global dialogue. Expect deep dives into:
- Integrated solutions for people, wildlife, and ecosystems using drones, sensors, satellites, AI, and data systems.
- Live drone demos in Konza Technopolis
Kenya’s positioning as a regional drone innovation hub makes this one of the most impact-driven UAV gatherings globally
DroneTecX 2026 – Africa Drone Technology Conference & Expo
Dates: May 12 -14, 2026
Location: Lagos, Nigeria
Dronetecx’s 6th edition aims to advance UAV technology in Nigeria and Africa, fostering collaboration between the private and government sectors for integrated UTM and Advanced Air Mobility development. Event focus will be on:
- Bringing a public understanding of the essence of drones and safe practices under regulation.
- Stakeholders one stop center for the drone-growing market, showcasing the sector’s potential and helping buyers and sellers create and exploit business opportunities.
- Showcasing equipment and services tailored for: mining, oil & gas, exploration, agrotech, logistics, security, videography and recreation
Africa Aerospace & Defence (AAD) Expo 2026
Dates: September 16 – 20, 2026
Location: Tshwane (Pretoria), South Africa
Though not specifically a drone event, the Africa Aerospace and Defence expo, held biennially in Tshwane, is the only African aerospace expo that combines a trade exhibition with an air show.
- World-class air demonstration, mobility track demonstrations, parachute drops, aerobatic displays and many other static displays from some of the biggest names in the aviation and defence industry
- Demonstration of their latest and greatest aircraft
- Organised children’s activities and attractions
What Sets African Drone Events Apart
African UAV conferences focus on real issues, featuring fewer demos and more deployed systems, a strong regulatory presence, relevant case studies, and providing opportunities for partnerships and credibility. Below is the listing of global drone events in 2026 from Drone Industry Insights.
