Speakers

Dr Dieudonné SAMA is a Senior Researcher & Developer in the Technological Innovation Department of ASECNA, the Agency for Aerial Navigation Safety in Africa and Madagascar. He holds a PhD in Science and Technology (External Geophysics – Mechatronics) and has over eleven years of experience in aviation and meteorological systems. Beginning his career as an air traffic controller, he moved into aeronautical information management before leading research and innovation initiatives that modernise air navigation, surveillance and meteorological services. He is the lead author and co-winner, with Professor Doua Allain GNABAHOU and Engineer Ali GANAMÉ, of the 11th Professor Dr Vilho Väisälä Award of the World Meteorological Organization (2026), for the development of an automated, real-time runway condition monitoring system. A patented inventor and international speaker, his work bridges scientific research and operational implementation, with a focus on the digital transformation of aeronautical and meteorological systems, automation, drones, embedded systems and artificial intelligence applied to aviation safety in Africa.