Blade Nzimande, Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, emphasized the need for Africa to redefine its approach to collaboration within the continent and with global partners in the realms of science, technology, and innovation.
During a parliamentary session focused on departmental budget allocations, Nzimande presented an extensive budget exceeding R10 billion aimed at bolstering advancements in these critical sectors.
The minister asserted that Africa must establish a “sovereign research and development agenda.” He clarified that this call does not dismiss the importance of international funding or partnerships but encourages substantial domestic support that is rooted in equity and commitment to local investment and innovation.
Political representatives highlighted the significance of this year’s budget in solidifying South Africa’s technological status on the global stage. Luciso Makhubele, Chair of the Science, Technology, and Innovation Portfolio Committee, remarked that the budget reflects the future South Africa aims to build, pivoting from being solely a consumer of imported technology to becoming a sovereign innovator in industrialization and scientific advancements.
In response to the pressing issue of youth unemployment, Inkatha Freedom Party MP Sanele Zondo stressed the budget’s potential to provide solutions. He noted, “Given the high youth unemployment rate and slowing industrial growth, our approach to science, technology, and innovation must be transformative.”
Concerns were raised regarding insufficient resources allocated to institutions tasked with fostering innovation. Democratic Alliance member Tumelo Ramongaro pointed out the disparity between investments in infrastructure and the limited support for organizations driving innovation, competitiveness, and commercialization.
Other political factions, including the Umkhonto We Sizwe Party and the Economic Freedom Fighters, criticized the budget for failing to address essential issues in science and technology. MK Party MP Thembinkosi Mijadou remarked on the gap between ambitious rhetoric and actual funding, stating that the budget lacks the financial backing necessary to fulfill its lofty promises.
Dr. Susan Thembekwayo of the Economic Freedom Fighters also criticized the budget, highlighting the paradox of planning for a prosperous economy while many young science and engineering graduates remain unemployed. “This contradiction is a recurring theme throughout the budget,” she noted.
In a related announcement, Nzimande revealed that on July 4, his ministry will kick off the first installment of National Science Month, building on the initiative previously known as National Science Week.
The Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation recently submitted the 2026/27 Budget Vote Roadmap to Parliament, outlining a vision that prioritizes science, technology, and innovation as essential drivers of South Africa’s progress. This includes initiatives ranging from artificial intelligence transformation to the advancement of a green economy, aiming to foster a more resilient nation.
