South Africa and China Strengthen AI Partnership to Boost Connectivity and Skills

Johannesburg: South Africa is taking major steps to strengthen its digital economy through a new partnership with China focused on artificial intelligence (AI), connectivity, and skills development.

Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Solly Malatsi has returned from an official visit to Beijing, Shenzhen, and Shanghai, where discussions advanced a proposed China–South Africa AI Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement is expected to unlock collaboration in areas such as research, education, agriculture, and public services.

Expanding Connectivity and Access

Talks with the China Satellite Network Company centered on extending satellite broadband to reach rural and underserved communities across South Africa. The Ministry also held financing discussions with the Export–Import Bank of China to support broadband expansion projects.

At the same time, engagements with Huawei and Honor focused on providing affordable digital devices for students and small businesses, a move that directly supports South Africa’s “digital for all” programme, which aims to close the digital divide.

Aligning With South Africa’s Digital Vision

The cooperation effort comes at a time when South Africa is pushing to attract investment in digital infrastructure while also ensuring that AI is developed in an inclusive and ethical way. During the trip, the delegation also met with the BRICS Institute of Future Networks and participated in the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai. These platforms help connect South Africa to global conversations on standards, technology ecosystems, and innovation policy.

Boosting the Digital Economy

Economists note that improved connectivity and access to affordable devices will help South Africa increase the digital economy’s share of GDP by the late 2020s. The emphasis on skills training is especially important, as local industries, from agriculture to healthcare—require qualified professionals to apply AI in practical and responsible ways.

Building for the Future

Rather than focusing on a single large announcement, the August engagements laid the foundation for a broad framework of cooperation, combining infrastructure, financing, devices, standards, and skills. This comprehensive approach is expected to deliver long-term benefits by improving schools, clinics, farms, and small businesses across the country.

If successfully implemented, the South Africa–China AI partnership could help transform connectivity and innovation, positioning South Africa as a leader in Africa’s digital transformation journey.

Sources: iAfrica.com | Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China