The recent Automechanika Buyers and Visitors Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) Roadshows in Zimbabwe and Zambia, under the theme "Forging the African Connection", have set the stage for what promises to be the most important gathering for the region's automotive professionals later this year.
Building on past success
Following the highly successful Automechanika roadshows in Gaborone, Botswana and Nairobi, Kenya, the Information Sessions once again brought together key figures from the automotive and logistics sectors to collaborate and share crucial business insights.
Dr Tapiwa Mujakachi, President of CILT Zimbabwe, delivered a presentation on the subject of logistics and transport in SSA during the Zimbabwe leg of the roadshow, held at the Ezulwini Villa Hotel. Dr Mujakachi emphasised the need for greater integration and efficiency to support the growth of the automotive aftermarket, before Dr Zebediah Chitanha, MILT member of CILT, offered insightful perspectives on transport policy, logistics, and regional integration.
During the engaging discussion amongst participants that followed the presentations, one of the key themes highlighted by the participants was the opportunities following the creation of an African Supply Chain, a topic that is driven by the African Association of Automotive Manufacturers (AAAM). Another important prospect remains the full implementation of the AfCFTA, and participants saw this as an important next step to increase trade relations inter Africa.
The Zambia event, hosted at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Lusaka, built on the success of previous events. Duane Newman, Climate Change and Sustainability Services Africa Leader at EY, provided the keynote address and offered a timely analysis of the global automotive landscape.
New realities laid bare
In the wake of the global response to the news of a second Trump administration in the United States, Newman's presentation outlined the new realities facing the automotive sector. From the imposition of tariffs and protectionist policies to the reorganisation of global supply chains, his message was clear: the rules of the game are changing, and Africa must be ready to respond. “For those in the aftermarket sector, the impact is already being felt,” said Newman. “The US is moving towards an ‘America First’ doctrine, with higher tariffs on imports, a push for local content, and a likely rollback of incentives for electric vehicles. This is causing ripples across Europe, China and Japan, with each region implementing measures to adjust its own policies and supply chains.”
While the direct effects of US tariffs on the African continent may be limited, the broader instability in global trade is likely to slow economic growth and disrupt established business models.
Opportunities beckon
However, as Newman noted, there are also opportunities to be explored. “In light of global manufacturers seeking to diversify their production bases and reduce exposure to trade wars, emerging markets such as South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe are becoming increasingly attractive,” he added. “The challenge for African businesses is to position themselves as reliable partners in this new landscape, ready to supply not only raw materials but also components and finished products.”
This is where Automechanika Johannesburg 2025, taking place at Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg from 28 to 30 October, comes in. This event is more than just an exhibition; it is the region's premier platform for networking, business development and strategic planning.
The event will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators from across the continent and beyond. It will provide a unique space to share insights, forge partnerships, and develop action plans in response to the shifting global environment.
Delegates can expect to engage with the latest trends in technology, supply chain management, and regulatory compliance. There will be opportunities to learn from international experts, explore new business models, and discover how to build resilience in the face of uncertainty.
Michael Dehn, Managing Director of Messe Frankfurt South Africa, captured the essence of the event: "Automechanika Johannesburg is more than just a trade show; it is where the African automotive aftermarket community comes together to shape the future, build relationships, and find solutions to the challenges we all face.
“The trade fair provides a valuable opportunity to network with colleagues who are dealing with similar issues, and to collaborate on strategies that will propel the African automotive aftermarket forward,” he added.
As the Roadshow's theme suggests, it is time to forge the African connection. If you are a manufacturer, distributor, service provider or policymaker, Automechanika Johannesburg 2025 is the event where you can influence the future of the industry. We cordially invite you to join us in shaping a prosperous future in these challenging times.