Zambia and South Africa Deepen Cooperation in Science, Technology and Innovation
The Governments of the Republic of Zambia and the Republic of South Africa have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in Science, Technology, Research, Artificial Intelligence, and infrastructure development.
This renewed commitment was highlighted during a courtesy call by South Africa’s Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Blade Nzimande, on Zambia’s Minister of Technology and Science, Hon. Felix C. Mutati, MP, at the Ministry Headquarters in Lusaka.
During the discussions, Hon. Nzimande emphasised South Africa’s continued support to Zambia, particularly in ICT and the mining sector. He noted that both countries share a strong economic foundation in mining, underscoring the need for enhanced research and innovation to modernise the sector, improve safety, and maximise economic benefits.
Accompanied by the South African High Commissioner to Zambia, Mr Saad Cachalia, the Minister also expressed gratitude for Zambia’s historic role in South Africa’s liberation struggle.
He acknowledged Zambia’s solidarity during the fight for independence and reflected on the enduring bond between the two nations, strengthened by shared history and mutual respect.
Hon. Nzimande further proposed the establishment of a Science and Technology Fund to support research and development, as well as an annual investment forum aimed at advancing industrialisation. He stressed the importance of reducing the export of raw minerals by promoting value addition within the region. Additionally, he highlighted ongoing collaboration in space science as a key area for future cooperation.
In response, Hon. Mutati expressed appreciation for the long-standing partnership between the two countries in science, technology and innovation. He reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to leveraging research to transform the mining sector through value addition and industrialisation.
He noted that Zambia is working towards increasing copper production to 3 million metric tonnes annually by 2030 under the Eighth National Development Plan, supported by improved digital and energy infrastructure. He added that stabilised power supply had already contributed to rising copper production levels.
The Minister also highlighted ongoing research at the Copperbelt University and the University of Zambia, particularly in the development of lithium batteries and mining innovation.
He stressed that stronger collaboration in research and development between the two nations could unlock significant commercial opportunities and drive industrial transformation.
Hon. Mutati further proposed the expansion of the existing bilateral Research Chair under the 2012 agreement, suggesting a third chair focused on indigenous knowledge systems and space science. This would include documenting and commercialising local knowledge in health, agriculture and environmental management, as well as leveraging satellite technology for disaster management and national planning.
He also welcomed South Africa’s continued support in training Zambian researchers, noting that graduates from the Nelson Mandela School of Science and Technology are already contributing to national and regional development.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to deepen cooperation and accelerate the commercialisation of innovation for the mutual benefit of both countries, marking a significant step forward in strengthening Zambia–South Africa relations in science and technology.
