By Alicia Mmashakana
Defence and Military Veterans Minister Angie Motshekga has emphasised the importance of promoting African excellence aerospace and defence.
She was speaking at media briefing for the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) Exhibition and Air Show.
“AAD 2024 is particularly special as it takes place in a year where we celebrate significant milestones in both the defence and aerospace sectors. This year’s event promises to build on its rich legacy of over two decades of innovation, partnership and showcasing African excellence in these industries,” she said on Tuesday.
Over the years, ADD has secured its place as one of the top six defence exhibitions worldwide in terms of scale, size and impact.
Motshekga said the upcoming exhibition would include several new features that reflected the evolving landscape of defence and aerospace.
They included dedicated hubs for energy, general aviation, and drone and anti-drone technologies, showcasing the most recent innovations shaping the future of these industries.
Also, AAD would be encouraging youth participation through its Youth Development Programme.
Over 9000 students participated in 2022, and this year Motshekga expected 12,000 young people from all nine provinces to explore the possibilities of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
“These young minds represent the future of our industries and their exposure to AAD will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of aerospace and defence leaders,” Motshekga said.
“This remains an integral part of the event, reflecting a strong commitment to nurturing future talent and providing a platform for young minds, especially from disadvantaged and marginalised communities, to engage with the aerospace and defence sectors.”
The minister added that the economic impact of AAD could not be overstated, and the department was confident that with the participation of global players and strong local industries, they would surpass targets this year.
“AAD is not only a significant event for the aerospace and defence sectors but also for the broader economy of Gauteng and South Africa,” Motshekga said AAD is a yearly aerospace and defence exhibition held at the Waterkloof air force base in Centurion, Gauteng.
The trade exhibition will run from Wednesday to Friday, followed by the much- anticipated public air show over the weekend.
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