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The African defense exhibition, ShieldAfrica, may soon find a new home in Morocco, as reported by Africa Intelligence. The organizers «hope to revive the African edition, which was halted in 2021. Previously held in Côte d'Ivoire, the event could make a comeback near Casablanca, in an even more impressive format».
This potential relocation is being spearheaded by COGES Events, a French company with expertise in organizing defense exhibitions. The move aligns with Morocco's ambitions to establish itself as a key player in Africa's defense industry. According to the same source, discussions are already underway to possibly relaunch the exhibition by 2029.
It's noteworthy that COGES Events announced the cancellation of the 2023 edition of ShieldAfrica. The organizers cited «the unavailability of the Abidjan Police Academy, the usual venue, which prompted COGES Africa to consider relocating to the new Exhibition Park in the capital», before ultimately deciding to cancel the event.
The city of Benslimane, already home to an industrial zone dedicated to defense, is a leading candidate to host this exhibition. Major international companies, including the American giant Lockheed Martin and Turkish drone manufacturer Baykar, have already set up industrial units there.
Moreover, Morocco's ambassador to Côte d'Ivoire, Othman El Ferdaous, met with Ivorian Vice-Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, Téné Birahima Ouattara, on Wednesday, May 6.
Since 2008, Morocco has been hosting the Marrakech Air Show, an event that primarily focuses on the aeronautics and aerospace sectors.
