Africa’s industrial revolution accelerates
May 2025
News

Johan Steyn.
As Africa undergoes a rapid industrial transformation, AATF Connect 2025 emerges as the premier platform to showcase innovation, drive collaboration, and spark discussions that will shape the continent’s industrial future. Taking place from 7-8 May 2025 as part of Africa Automation Technology Fair (AATF) at the Gallagher Convention Centre, this two-day conference brings together visionaries, experts and decision makers to address the biggest challenges and opportunities in Industry 4.0, automation, AI, IoT, cybersecurity and sustainable manufacturing.

Yanesh Naidoo.
Powering Africa’s industrial future
With Africa’s industries increasingly integrating smart technologies, AATF Connect 2025, powered by Schneider Electric provides an unmatched platform for industry professionals to exchange ideas, explore new technologies and gain insights from the best minds in the field.
“Africa is not just keeping pace with global industrial advancements, we are actively shaping the future,” says Martin Hiller, portfolio director of AATF. “This year, we’re bringing together pioneers in automation, AI and cyber security to tackle Africa’s biggest industrial challenges and unlock new growth opportunities. If you’re serious about staying competitive in this digital era, this is the event you can’t afford to miss.”

Kaluba Chikonde.
Key highlights of AATF Connect 2025
• Expert-led sessions: Industry leaders like Johan Steyn (IITPSA), Yanesh Naidoo (Jendamark), Brendan van Staaden (MoData), Kaluba Chikonde (DimystifAI) and Andisa Liba (Floatpays) will share insights on AI, automation and smart manufacturing.
• The future of Industry 4.0: Discover real-world applications of IoT, AI and automation in industrial settings.
• Cybersecurity and risk management: Understand how to safeguard your business against digital threats.
• Sustainability and green automation: Learn how African industries can implement eco-friendly manufacturing practices.
• Networking and collaboration: Engage with decision makers, innovators and business leaders in exclusive networking sessions.
The conference is designed not just for industry veterans but also for business leaders, engineers, tech professionals, investors and policymakers looking to stay ahead in an increasingly digital world.

Andisa Liba.
Be part of the change and secure your seat today!
• Date: 7-8 May 2025
• Venue: Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand
• Tickets: R2566 (both days) or R1395 (one day)
• Register now at https://aatf2025.showhub.live/
As technology redefines African industries, AATF Connect 2025 sets the stage for the next wave of industrial transformation. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, connect and innovate with the best in the business.
Further reading:
Reinstatement opportunity for ECSA registration
News
In 2023 the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) announced a special opportunity for engineers in South Africa to reinstate their registration status if it had been cancelled. This exclusive offer is available until the end of August 2024.
Read more...
Festo 100th Anniversary: Celebrating a century-long legacy of innovation and commitment
News
Festo has officially begun celebrating 100 years of groundbreaking technology, commitment and enduring partnerships. To kick off this historic milestone celebration, their Customer Innovation Day and ThankYou Party series brought together customers, partners and employees to reflect on their journey and look ahead to an
Read more...
Bearings International fosters dynamic customer partnerships
News
Bearings International has consistently set the benchmarks in innovation and excellence as a leading distributor of bearings, power transmission and interconnected mechanical consumables that sustainably facilitate and optimise operations for mining and industrial customers across Southern Africa.
Read more...
Innomotics and Danfoss Drives strengthen partnership to deliver comprehensive motor and drive solutions
News
Innomotics and Danfoss Drives have announced the next phase of their strategic, non-exclusive partnership. This collaboration is designed to meet the growing demand for comprehensive motor and drive solutions, ensuring customers receive high-quality, efficient and compatible products
Read more...
From the editor's desk: A good servant and a bad master
Technews Publishing (SA Instrumentation & Control)
News
In our new AI-generated world it was inevitable that the Nobel Committee would have noticed. And last November two pioneers of artificial intelligence, John Hopfield and Geoffrey Hinton, won the Nobel Prize
...
Read more...
Festo 100th Anniversary: Celebrating a century-long legacy of innovation and commitment
Festo South Africa
News
Festo has officially begun celebrating 100 years of groundbreaking technology, commitment and enduring partnerships. To kick off this historic milestone celebration, their Customer Innovation Day and ThankYou Party series brought together customers, partners and employees to reflect on their journey and look ahead to an exciting future.
Read more...
German Chancellor visits Beckhoff at Hannover Messe
Beckhoff Automation
News
As part of the traditional Hannover Messe opening tour, Federal Chancellor of Germany, Olaf Scholz visited German company, Beckhoff Automation. Hans Beckhoff, managing director and owner of Beckhoff Automation, presented his company and its comprehensive expertise in the field of software and AI.
Read more...
Iritron celebrates 25 years of excellence
Iritron
News
When Iritron, a leading provider of engineering and industrial solutions was founded in 2000, it was on the principles of exceptional service and lasting part-nerships. Today, Iritron has grown from a small team of four into a company of over 120 employees, serving clients across South Africa and beyond.
Read more...
A racing partnership
SKF South Africa
News
In one of motorsport’s most demanding arenas, a partnership forged in engineering precision and high-performance ambition has proven its worth. SKF, a global leader in bearing technology and innovation, celebrated a remarkable milestone in partnership with SVR Toyota GAZOO Racing, taking second position overall at the 2025 Dakar Rally.
Read more...
Question and Answer: Martin Hiller, portfolio director of AATF
News
AATF is here.
Read more...