South Africa and China plan to set up an artificial intelligence talent and innovation centre in South Africa, the latest South Africa China AI initiative, officials said after talks in Wuhan on 11 November.
No budget, site or opening date has been announced. A Chinese technical team is expected to visit for a preliminary assessment, according to a statement from South Africa’s Department of Science, Technology and Innovation.
What is the South Africa China AI centre?
The proposed Artificial Intelligence Talent Development and Innovation Centre is meant to narrow the country’s digital skills gap, build innovation capacity and expand work with Chinese institutions, the department said. Preparatory work is under way.
“The centre will strengthen innovation capabilities and deepen the bilateral cooperation between our countries in the field of artificial intelligence,” said Nomalungelo Gina, the deputy minister of science, technology and innovation.
Who met in Wuhan?
Gina met Zhang Guangjun, China’s vice-minister of science and technology, on the sidelines of the 2026 China-Africa Innovation Cooperation and Development Forum. She said her department was ready to implement the agreements it had entered into, without listing them.
Zhang said President Xi Jinping had stressed co-operation in the digital economy, AI and new energy, according to the South African account. Those areas were named when the two countries upgraded relations in September 2024.
What else is planned?
South Africa has identified advanced manufacturing, biotechnology and 5G as priorities for further engagement, the department said. The two governments opened a joint digital research centre in October.
FAQ
Has the South Africa China AI centre been funded?
No funding, location or timetable was given. The department said a Chinese technical team would first carry out a preliminary assessment.
Who announced the plan?
South Africa’s Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, after talks between Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina and China’s Vice-Minister Zhang Guangjun.
What other areas does the South Africa China AI partnership cover?
The digital economy and new energy, with South Africa also naming advanced manufacturing, biotechnology and 5G.
