Ethiopia and South Africa seek to forge collaboration in science and technology

Addis Ababa, November 27, 2024 (FBC) – Ethiopia’s Ministry of Innovation and Technology engaged in talks with South Africa’s Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation to enhance cooperation in the realms of science, technology, and innovation.

The discussions were aimed at reviewing past initiatives and charting a course for future collaboration based on a previously signed agreement between the two nations.

Baisa Bedada (PhD), State Minister of Innovation and Technology, highlighted South Africa’s substantial expertise, noting its successful endeavors in research and development, technology transfer, innovation, industrialization, human resource development, and collaborative infrastructure projects.

South Africa’s Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Blade Nzimande (PhD), expressed readiness to share the country’s experiences in various fields, including space and astronomy, bio-economy, artificial intelligence, and nanotechnology, while also being open to learning from Ethiopia’s advancements.

The discussions underscored the importance of furthering the African Agenda 2063 with a focus on critical areas such as nanotechnology, space science, material science, and human resource development, emphasizing the coordination of African nations around indigenous technologies.

Both countries anticipate strengthening their partnership and attracting collaboration from other African nations. Additionally, they agreed to explore the establishment of a joint fund to support their cooperative efforts in these vital fields.