AFRICAN AERONAUTICS & SPACE INNOVATION TROPHY (ASIT 2026)

The 4th edition of the African Aeronautics & Space Innovation Trophy (ASIT) took place on 27 March 2026 at the National Air and Space Museum – Le Bourget, gathering key stakeholders from across Africa and the global space community.

Organized by the African Aeronautics & Space Organisation (AASO), the event underscored Africa’s growing role in the international space sector and its strengthening collaboration with the International Astronautical Federation (IAF).

A highlight of the ceremony was the recognition of Tidiane Ouattara, President of the African Space Council and African Space Agency, as the ASIT 2026 laureate for his leadership in advancing Africa’s space ambitions.

Christian Feichtinger, IAF Executive Director, addressed participants with a keynote emphasizing the importance of international cooperation, innovation, and Africa’s rising influence in the global space ecosystem. He highlighted the growing engagement of African institutions within the IAF, including a 53% increase in abstract submissions from African countries at the International Astronautical Congress 2025 in Sydney.

He also underlined the significance of the upcoming IAF Global Space Conference on Climate Change (GLOC 2026), to be held in Rwanda under the theme “Uniting Space and Earth for Climate Resilience.” With 318 abstracts submitted from 59 countries, the conference reflects strong global momentum and positions Africa at the forefront of space-based solutions addressing climate change.

The event was further marked by the presence of IAF representatives, including Asanda Ntisana, IAF Vice President for Honors and Awards, and Marlène Michèle Losier, Chair of the Committee for the Cultural Utilisation of Space (ITACCUS) and the Committee for Liaison with International Organisations and Developing Nations (CLIODN), alongside other members of the Federation, demonstrating the IAF’s continued commitment to strengthening partnerships and supporting the growth of the African space sector.