The event drew thousands of professionals, innovators and thought leaders under the banner ‘Future Ready, Smart Solutions’.
This year’s edition was not only a showcase of cutting-edge tech but also a celebration of innovation with purpose, featuring over 125 exhibitors, 25 expert speakers, interactive workshops, real-time robotics showcases and a buzzing show floor that brought Industry 4.0 to life.
Robots in the spotlight: Pepper and Spot delight and educate
A major highlight was the appearance of Pepper, South Africa’s first humanoid robot, who hosted workshops and interacted with delegates to demonstrate the future of human-machine collaboration. Engaging, conversational and educational, Pepper brought AI to life, especially for students and younger attendees discovering robotics for the first time.
Equally crowd pleasing was Spot, the agile robotic dog from Boston Dynamics, who made multiple appearances throughout the event. From safety inspections to live demos of industrial applications, Spot captured imaginations and showcased what’s possible when robotics meets real-world industry. “These activations weren’t just about the wow factor,” noted AATF portfolio director, Martin Hiller. “They were about showing how automation and AI can be both deeply human and highly practical.”
Turning insight into impact
AATF2025 moved well beyond the exhibits, delivering three days of strategic conversations around the realities and future of automation in Africa. The programme featured leading voices like Justice Malala, whose opening keynote explored the intersection of technology, politics and economic transformation.
Delegates gained practical insights into:
• Smart manufacturing through IoT integration (Johan Steyn, AI for Business).
• Cybersecurity frameworks for connected systems (Idani Mulaudzi, Discovery Bank and Pieter Pienaar, Informed Decisions).
• AI-driven intelligent manufacturing (Yanesh Naidoo, Jendamark and Brendan van Staaden, Modata).
• Generative AI in automation (David Osborn, Dassault Systèmes).
• African excellence in vehicle production (Tatenda Mungofa, Mureza Auto Co).
• Circular economy strategies (Michel Mafoumba, Smart Automation Engineering).
• Skills development in Industry 5.0 (Joe Samuels, SAQA).
Purposeful, inclusive innovation
One of the defining threads across all three days was the emphasis on human-centric technology. In her Day 3 keynote, Kaluba Chikonde, a Zambian AI specialist, championed ethical AI frameworks that empower people rather than replace them. “Reliability in AI comes not just from the system, but from the values and intentions of the people who train and guide it,” she said.
With open access sessions, a free-to-use AATF app and an intentional focus on bringing in SMEs, startups and students, AATF2025 was as much about inclusion as innovation.
“As we close the doors on this landmark edition of AATF, the message is clear,” said Martin Hiller, portfolio director for AATF 2025. “Africa is not just ready for Industry 4.0, we’re shaping it in our own image. Through collaboration, ethical innovation and human-first design, we’re building a future that’s smart, inclusive and proudly African.”
The SAIMC and Technews had the pleasure of hosting Pepper the humanoid robot, who brought a unique twist to the event by interviewing some of the most inspiring and influential women in industry. From leadership insights to innovation in automation, these conversations highlighted the powerful impact women are making across the sector.
Follow the links below to hear their stories in their own words, with a little help from Pepper.
Oculus interview with Pepper the Robot: https://youtu.be/8JwDp3od6o0
SAIMC interview with Pepper the Robot: https://youtu.be/74YsrhEH6zw
Iritron interview with Pepper the Robot: https://youtu.be/tJatFl0EdUQ
AATF returns in 2027 from 11 to 13 May at the Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand, South Africa.
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