In a historic move to deepen science and innovation ties across Africa, South Africa and Tunisia have signed a far-reaching agreement to advance bilateral cooperation in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI). The accord was formalised during a ministerial visit by Dr. Blade Nzimande, South Africa’s Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation.
The pact is part of the broader Scaling up Tunisia–South Africa Strategy, and outlines a joint action plan and official minutes from a research collaboration session between the two nations. Going beyond symbolic diplomacy, the agreement lays out practical steps for research exchanges, institutional partnerships, innovation ecosystem development, and capacity-building efforts that align with the African Union’s STI goals.
“This visit was not just about renewing ties—it was about building real momentum for collaboration that delivers results,” said Minister Nzimande during the high-level signing ceremony in Tunis.
Key focus areas under the agreement include healthcare, food security, digital transformation, energy and water resilience, and climate change adaptation. The deal also promotes joint participation in global STI programs, protection of intellectual property, and efforts to build an innovation-ready workforce.
Professor Mondher Belaid, Tunisia’s Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, hailed the agreement as a critical step toward regional scientific integration. “STI is a core pillar of Tunisia’s foreign policy in Africa,” he said.
The South African delegation included representatives from top research institutions, such as the National Research Foundation (NRF), Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Mintek, and the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA)—underscoring the agreement’s strong institutional backing.
Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to using STI as a lever for resilience, youth empowerment, and sustainable development across Africa. The partnership reflects shared historical solidarity and a united vision for a knowledge-driven, prosperous continent.
Article by Nyokabi Wanjiku
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