Yaskawa Southern Africa made a compelling impact at the Africa Automation and Technology Fair (AATF). As a global leader in industrial automation and robotics, Yaskawa’s collaboration with engineering and automation pioneer Controltech at AATF 2025 demonstrated its commitment to collaboration, innovation and sustainable technological advancement across the African continent. With a shared vision for intelligent automation, Yaskawa and Controltech demonstrated how integrated robotics and control systems can improve productivity, safety and operational efficiency across a wide range of industries.
“Our presence at the fair was all about visibility, engagement and showing how Yaskawa and Controltech can together deliver top-tier automation solutions and service,” says Jan T’Hart, national sales manager at Yaskawa Southern Africa. “By working collaboratively, we’re able to demonstrate real-world robotic applications that resonate with the current needs of African industries.”
Controltech, a South African engineering and automation company, offers end-to-end solutions across electrical design, software development, scada systems and process integration. Its partnership with Yaskawa enhances the value Controltech delivers to clients through more advanced, flexible and scalable automation systems. “As automation specialists focused on both software and electrical solutions, partnering with a global leader in robotics like Yaskawa was a strategic decision,” says Controltech’s Driaan Kleynhans. “Its technologies enhance our ability to offer more intelligent, flexible and efficient systems, expanding what we can achieve for clients across a wider range of complex applications.”
Live demo of collaborative robotics
A key highlight of the exhibit was a live demonstration of a collaborative robot (cobot) in industrial mode. Designed to simulate a repetitive pick-and-place system, the cobot was controlled entirely from a teach pendant, illustrating how minimal add-ons can produce a fully operational, real-world robotic solution. To ensure visitor safety, the system was enclosed within a transparent frame that enabled full visibility while mitigating potential risks posed by peripheral equipment such as pneumatic grippers. This immersive setup was intended to spark conversations around robotic adaptability and customisation, including the use of vision systems, mobile bases or bespoke tooling.
“These innovations reflect Yaskawa Southern Africa’s commitment to advancing the automation landscape across the continent by delivering inclusive, sustainable and practical solutions tailored to Africa’s unique industrial needs,” T’Hart explained.
Automation that supports, not replaces, the workforce
Both Yaskawa and Controltech are committed to delivering automation that enhances the human workforce, not displaces it. Their joint offering allows manufacturers to automate repetitive, hazardous or physically demanding tasks while upskilling employees and empowering them to take on higher-value roles. “Yaskawa supports local industries by improving productivity and safety while fostering job sustainability,” said T’Hart. “Through local training programmes, technical support and collaboration with system integrators like Controltech, we ensure that our solutions remain accessible and adaptable.”
Controltech echoes: “Our clients often face challenges around labour-intensive packaging lines, operational inefficiencies and limited process insight,” says its spokesperson. “With Yaskawa’s robotics integrated into our scada and control platforms, we’re helping businesses transition to intelligent automation with measurable impact.”
Driving digital transformation across the continent
Another major focus of the demonstration was factory-wide data integration. Controltech demonstrated how complex process data can be visualised through dynamic dashboards, empowering manufacturers with real-time insights and enterprise-level key performance indicators. “Working with Yaskawa has allowed us to take a more holistic approach to automation by combining robotics, electrical engineering and software intelligence into cohesive, future-ready systems,” added Kleynhans. The collaboration is also aimed at bridging the digital divide in African manufacturing. “With scalable, modular technologies and strong local partnerships we can help businesses reduce reliance on manual processes and build more resilient production systems.”
A sustainable and skilled automation future
Yaskawa’s latest generation of robots and drives features energy-efficient designs, including low standby consumption, lightweight mechanical structures and regenerative power capabilities, aimed at helping customers lower both operating costs and their environmental impact. The company is also heavily invested in education and workforce development. Through partnerships with colleges, training centres and universities, Yaskawa delivers tailored programmes and hands-on training that equip future engineers and technicians with the skills needed to thrive in a digitally enabled industrial landscape. “We understand that the success of automation depends not just on advanced technology, but also on the people who use it,” T’Hart said. “By nurturing local talent and working with trusted partners like Controltech, we’re helping to shape an automation ecosystem that is inclusive, innovative and built for Africa.”
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