Automotive Engineering Events in South Africa

Smarter Mobility Africa Summit

Smarter Mobility Africa Summit: Shaping the Future of Transport Through Innovation and Integration

In a rapidly urbanizing world, the way we move people and goods across cities and regions is undergoing a revolutionary shift. Smarter Mobility Africa summit understands the opportunities that come from an integrated mobility offering, and it serves as a beacon for what modern, inclusive, and sustainable transportation should look like across the continent. Taking place annually in Johannesburg, this event is not just another conference — it is a transformative experience that bridges the gap between policy, innovation, and the daily challenges of urban mobility in Africa.

At the core of this summit lies the vision of inclusive transport systems, embracing technology, policy reform, and people-first planning. The event brings together a powerful coalition of public and private stakeholders, including Gautrain, SANTACO, City of Johannesburg, Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA), and Lusaka City Council. These institutions are collectively shaping a new narrative for African mobility — one where local needs, regional dynamics, and global sustainability goals converge.

Inspiring Leadership: From the Streets to the Stage

One of the most anticipated highlights of the summit is the keynote address by Mr. Motlhabane Abnar Tsebe, the President of SANTACO (South African National Taxi Council). His personal journey — from a minibus taxi driver navigating Johannesburg’s busy streets to becoming a national leader — is a powerful symbol of transformation and empowerment. It also mirrors the evolution of the minibus taxi industry itself, which has long been a cornerstone of African transport.
A Voice for Millions

Mr. Tsebe’s keynote is expected to:

Celebrate innovation within the minibus taxi sector.

Highlight the importance of formalizing and regulating informal transport.

Emphasize the role of local leadership in transport transformation.

Encourage government collaboration with grassroots operators.

His leadership underscores the summit’s broader mission — to elevate those who have long been excluded from transport policy discussions and place them at the center of the mobility conversation.

Connecting Stakeholders Across Borders

Africa’s transport ecosystem is complex and diverse, but the challenges faced across countries often echo similar themes: congestion, poor infrastructure, lack of integration, and inadequate investment. The Smarter Mobility Africa Summit serves as a unifying platform where urban planners from Lusaka can sit alongside Johannesburg tech entrepreneurs and exchange valuable insights.

Key participating institutions include:

Gautrain – showcasing high-speed rail innovation and infrastructure planning.

SANTACO – advocating for minibus taxi formalization and sector upliftment.

City of Johannesburg – presenting urban development and transport integration projects.

JRA (Johannesburg Roads Agency) – offering data on smart road systems and maintenance.

Lusaka City Council – sharing perspectives on cross-border transport planning and urban mobility challenges.

Key Themes and Focus Areas at the Summit

This year’s summit revolves around a dynamic agenda that aligns with Africa’s pressing transport issues while pointing toward global best practices.

Core themes include:

Integrated mobility platforms

Smart infrastructure and city design

Clean energy solutions in transport

Digital transformation in public mobility

Public-private partnerships in infrastructure development

Youth and women in mobility leadership

Each of these themes is not only discussed theoretically but is supported by real-world case studies, panel discussions, and immersive exhibits.

Why the Minibus Taxi Sector Matters

In many African cities, minibus taxis are the backbone of public transport, serving millions of commuters daily. Despite their importance, the sector remains under-regulated, underfunded, and often overlooked in high-level planning. At this year’s summit, attention is being turned toward:

Digital payment integration

Fleet modernization

Driver training and safety programs

Infrastructure (e.g., taxi ranks and lanes)

Environmental concerns, such as emissions

This sector’s transformation is crucial to achieving equitable and sustainable urban mobility in Africa.

Driving Innovation Through Collaboration

Smarter Mobility Africa Summit is not just about discussion — it’s about action. The event is designed to stimulate partnerships that lead to practical outcomes.

Examples of impactful collaborations:

Tech startups partnering with local transport authorities to pilot real-time transit apps.

International NGOs collaborating with SANTACO to improve transport access in rural areas.

City planners working with climate experts to design low-emission transport corridors.

Such multi-sectoral partnerships are vital for transforming mobility into a driver of economic inclusion, climate resilience, and social equity.

Looking Ahead: Vision 2030 and Beyond

As African cities grow, mobility challenges will only intensify. That’s why the Smarter Mobility Africa Summit plays such a crucial role in shaping long-term solutions. With the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and various Vision 2030 frameworks guiding national development strategies, transportation will remain a critical enabler of inclusive growth.

Among the expected future outcomes from the summit are:

Policy reforms supporting integrated mobility frameworks

Greater investment in sustainable transport infrastructure

Scaling of micro-mobility and last-mile connectivity solutions

Enhanced data-sharing between municipalities and the private sector

More Than a Summit, a Movement for Change

In many ways, Smarter Mobility Africa Summit is redefining what it means to build sustainable, accessible, and intelligent transport systems. By bringing together a wide range of stakeholders — from government officials to grassroots leaders, from global tech innovators to local taxi associations — the summit fosters a holistic understanding of the transport ecosystem in Africa.

It’s a space where innovation is matched with empathy, where policy meets practice, and where the stories of individuals like Mr. Motlhabane Abnar Tsebe remind us that real transformation starts from the ground up.

As Africa stands at the crossroads of urban expansion and technological advancement, platforms like this summit are essential for steering the continent toward a smarter, more inclusive mobility future.

Automechanika Johannesburg

Automechanika Johannesburg, held annually at the Johannesburg Expo Centre in South Africa, has become a pivotal event for the automotive service industry in Sub-Saharan Africa. Since its inception in 2009, it has grown into a major international trade fair, attracting professionals and businesses from various sectors of the automotive world. The exhibition provides an extensive platform for discovering a wide range of products and services across several key categories such as automotive parts and components, accessories, workshop equipment, tyres, batteries, fleet management, and much more. This dynamic event is not just a showcase of innovations but a hub where industry leaders come together to exchange ideas, forge new partnerships, and stay ahead of the latest trends shaping the future of the automotive sector.

The exhibition covers multiple areas essential to the automotive industry, and the Parts & Components category is one of its highlights. Featuring a comprehensive range of products critical to vehicle performance and longevity, this section offers visitors the chance to explore the latest advancements in engine parts, transmission systems, suspension components, electrical systems, and more. It serves as a crucial platform for sourcing high-quality automotive components, whether for vehicle manufacturers or aftermarket service providers, helping to meet the increasing demand for durable, performance-enhancing parts in today’s market.

Automechanika Johannesburg is not just about showcasing products but also about offering valuable educational opportunities. The fair hosts a series of conferences and seminars led by industry experts who discuss the pressing issues facing the automotive world today, from technological innovations to sustainability practices. These sessions provide insight into emerging trends and give attendees the knowledge they need to navigate the evolving landscape of the automotive sector. The tire-changing competition and the Innovation Awards ceremony further highlight the fair’s commitment to showcasing cutting-edge technologies and rewarding excellence in the industry. These events create an exciting and competitive atmosphere that keeps both exhibitors and attendees engaged.

In addition to the indoor exhibitions, the fair also features an outdoor area dedicated to complete car wash installations, known as "Auto Wash City." This unique concept presents the latest technologies and innovations in the car wash and vehicle care industry, offering a live demonstration of various systems and techniques. Other highlights include off-road vehicles, trailers, and services related to vehicle care and refurbishment, making the event a comprehensive experience for anyone involved in the automotive business.

Automechanika Johannesburg is more than just a trade fair; it’s a meeting place for professionals across a range of industries, including automotive, IT, and vehicle equipment. Attendees come seeking new technologies, business opportunities, and networking connections that can drive their operations forward. As part of the global Automechanika series, this event plays a vital role in opening up the growing African market to international companies, providing a platform for them to establish their presence in one of the world’s most dynamic economic regions. 

Located in one of Africa’s largest economic hubs, the Johannesburg Expo Centre offers excellent infrastructure and accessibility, making it the ideal venue for such a large-scale event. The fair’s international appeal is undeniable, as it draws exhibitors and visitors from around the world, eager to take part in the rapidly evolving African automotive market. Whether you are an industry professional seeking the latest in automotive technologies, a business looking to expand into new markets, or an innovator wanting to showcase your products, Automechanika Johannesburg provides a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and grow in a vibrant and inspiring environment. 

Automechanika Johannesburg has become an indispensable event for those looking to stay at the forefront of the automotive industry and related technologies. It not only serves as a marketplace for the latest products but also as a valuable platform for knowledge transfer, business development, and networking. For anyone involved in the automotive sector, this trade fair is an essential event that offers a wealth of opportunities in one of the most exciting and fast-growing markets in the world.

FESTIVAL OF MOTORING JOHANNESBURG

In the heart of South Africa's automotive scene, where passion meets performance, lies an event that ignites the spirit of motoring—the Festival of Motoring Johannesburg. Held annually in August at the iconic Kyalami Circuit in Midrand, this festival is a celebration of everything that makes South African Sports Car culture unique.

From the moment attendees arrive, they are immersed in a world where horsepower and heritage converge. The Festival of Motoring Johannesburg isn't just an exhibition; it's an experience that caters to automotive enthusiasts of all kinds. Whether you're drawn to the sleek lines of the latest models, the timeless beauty of classic cars, or the innovation of custom-built rides, there's something here to fuel every passion.

For exhibitors, the festival offers a prestigious platform to showcase vehicles and products to a diverse and engaged audience. Manufacturers unveil their newest creations, while aftermarket specialists demonstrate cutting-edge technologies and designs that push the boundaries of automotive innovation. It's a playground where enthusiasts can get up close and personal with their dream cars and discover the next big thing in automotive evolution.

Beyond the exhibits, the Festival of Motoring Johannesburg is a hive of activity. Thrilling demonstrations, interactive displays, and adrenaline-pumping track sessions bring the excitement of motorsport to life. Enthusiasts can test their skills behind the wheel, while families enjoy entertainment zones and cultural attractions that make every visit unforgettable.

The Kyalami Circuit, steeped in racing history and surrounded by the natural beauty of South Africa, provides a stunning backdrop for this automotive extravaganza. Its world-class facilities and renowned track layout ensure that every moment spent at the festival is as exhilarating as the cars on display.

Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast looking to indulge your passion or a business eager to connect with a vibrant community of car lovers, the Festival of Motoring Johannesburg promises an experience like no other. It's more than an event; it's a celebration of speed, style, and South African automotive heritage.

Join us this August at the Kyalami Circuit for the Festival of Motoring Johannesburg—an unforgettable journey into the heart of South African Sports Car culture. Let's come together to celebrate the thrill of the open road and the enduring spirit of automotive excellence.