South Africa and China are planning to establish a joint artificial intelligence innovation center in South Africa. The center aims to address the country's digital skills shortage and strengthen cooperation between institutions in both countries. The initiative was discussed during a working visit to China by South African Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Nomalungelo Gina. She attended the 2026 China-Africa Innovation and Development Forum in Wuhan from November 10-13.
The proposed center will focus on developing digital skills, enhancing innovation capacity, and expanding partnerships with Chinese institutions. Preparatory work has already begun, with a team of Chinese technical experts expected to visit South Africa to conduct an initial evaluation of the project. Gina stated that the center will strengthen innovation capacities and deepen bilateral cooperation between the two countries in the field of artificial intelligence.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen scientific and technological relations between Pretoria and Beijing. In September 2024, the two countries elevated their relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership for a new era. The partnership prioritizes areas such as the digital economy, artificial intelligence, and new energies. During discussions in Wuhan, South Africa also identified advanced manufacturing, biotechnology, and 5G mobile technology as areas for cooperation.
The two sides emphasized the need to strengthen links between universities, research institutes, and businesses to promote the economic and social applications of scientific research. Gina noted that scientific cooperation between the two countries is based on an agreement signed in 1999, under which over 240 joint research and development projects have been implemented. This cooperation has contributed to the development of South Africa's scientific and technological capabilities.
Gina also called for deeper cooperation in the application of space technologies, data sharing, and knowledge sharing, as well as increased opportunities for African scientists and young researchers. She stressed the need for African countries to develop and use technologies based on their own priorities. The partnership with China should not be limited to technology transfer but should also promote joint innovation, mutual learning, and sustainable local capacity development.
Gina emphasized that the results of this cooperation should be evaluated not only through the technologies developed but also through their impact on the living conditions of the population. The center is expected to contribute to South Africa's economic growth and social development. The project aligns with South Africa's efforts to develop its digital economy and enhance its global competitiveness.
The planned AI innovation center is a significant milestone in the strategic partnership between South Africa and China. Both countries are committed to strengthening their cooperation in science, technology, and innovation. The center will provide a platform for knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and joint research and development in the field of artificial intelligence.
Key points
- The center aims to address South Africa's digital skills shortage and strengthen cooperation between institutions in both countries.
- The proposed center will focus on developing digital skills, enhancing innovation capacity, and expanding partnerships with Chinese institutions.
- The initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen scientific and technological relations between Pretoria and Beijing.
