The AECI Legacy Book
100 years of innovation.
100 years of resilience.
100 years of people-powered progress.
As AECI celebrates its centennial milestone, we proudly present A Century Ignited — a commemorative book that honours the extraordinary journey of a company that helped shape South Africa’s industrial and economic landscape. This is more than a corporate history. It is a story of dynamite, determination, and dynamic transformation.
From its roots in Modderfontein as a pioneer in explosives manufacturing to its current footprint across six continents, AECI’s story is told through the voices of the people who built it — engineers, scientists, operators, leaders, and communities. It reflects the highs and lows of our nation’s past, from the struggles of apartheid and global isolation to moments of ingenuity and expansion that positioned AECI as a global leader in mining, chemicals, agriculture, and water.
As we commemorate AECI's 100th anniversary, we stand at a juncture that is as much about introspection as it is about celebration. Our journey over the past century has been marked by innovation, resilience and an unwavering commitment to progress. But it has also been a journey through some of the most turbulent periods in our nation's history - times that have not only tested our mettle as a company but also the very soul of our leadership.
We have navigated through the harsh realities of apartheid, international sanctions and the accompanying isolation, all of which profoundly affected our nation, our business and our people.
“Let us honour the past by learning from it and let us shape the future with the wisdom and compassion that true leadership demands.
Together, we can ensure that AECI remains a beacon of innovation, resilience and ethical leadership for generations to come.”
— Dr Khotso Mokhele, extract from A Century Ignited Foreword
Former Chairman of the Board
The AECI Century Celebration
Step inside the AECI Century Celebration event—an unforgettable evening marking 100 years of innovation, growth, and impact. This gallery captures the energy, excitement, and moments that defined this milestone occasion.
AECI gathered to honour a remarkable milestone: 100 years of igniting progress, building communities, and shaping industries. The Century Celebration was more than just a launch event—it was a testament to the vision, the people, and the passion that have fuelled AECI’s journey. This gallery captures the spirit of the evening: from inspiring speeches and heartfelt moments to the vibrant energy that filled the room.
The AECI Legacy Book invites readers to explore archival moments, iconic innovations, and personal reflections that span generations. It’s a tribute to our heritage and a bold vision for the next 100 years — grounded in sustainability, stewardship, and a commitment to excellence.
