PROMOTING SCIENCE COLLABORATION
The Science Diplomacy Capital for Africa (SDCfA) is a dynamic platform that fosters international collaboration in science, technology, and innovation to address Africa’s pressing societal challenges and contribute meaningfully to global development.
OUR PURPOSE
The SDCfA promotes cross-border scientific collaboration for Africa by cultivating a culture of partnership, knowledge exchange, and learning. At the heart of this initiative is the City of Tshwane (Pretoria), home to Africa’s largest diplomatic community. Tshwane’s unique concentration of research institutions, diplomatic missions, and international agencies makes it the ideal hub for building bridges between science and diplomacy.
We welcome and encourage participation from all stakeholders across the South African National System of Innovation, as well as regional, continental, and international partners. Inclusivity and representation lie at the core of our approach.
OUR VISION
Science diplomacy enabling socio-economic development in Africa through international collaboration in science and innovation.
OUR MISSION
The SDCfA is a catalytic platform that connects the international community with Africa’s science and innovation system. By promoting networking, partnership-building, and collaborative activities, we help to:
- Support global and regional research and innovation efforts, especially those aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.
- Promote Open Science and vibrant, inclusive dialogue about the role of science in society.
- Position Africa as a valued contributor to global science diplomacy policy and practice.
- Facilitate capacity-building through regular engagement with major international science diplomacy actors.
- Promote Africa as a preferred destination for science and innovation partnerships and investment.
OUR MANDATE
- Initiate and support dynamic partnerships between Africa’s diplomatic community and the continent’s science and innovation organisations.
- Enable international collaboration with global partners and African institutions, including regional and continental bodies.
- Amplify Africa’s voice in shaping global science diplomacy frameworks.
OUR LOCATION
The SDCfA Hub is based at the CSIR International Convention Centre (ICC) in Tshwane, South Africa—a global precinct for science and technology innovation, surrounded by a vibrant diplomatic and scientific community.
OUR PILLARS
- Strategic Location: A high concentration of science, technology, and innovation (STI) institutions and foreign missions in Tshwane.
- Global Connectivity: Strong working relationships with international bodies and networks.
- Continental Leadership: South Africa’s robust economic and scientific presence on the African continent.
- Proven Track Record: An established ecosystem of collaboration and knowledge exchange initiatives.
STRUCTURE
The SDCfA is supported by a collaborative structure that brings together strategic leadership, operational coordination, and public engagement to drive its mission forward.
ROLEPLAYERS
Collaboration with the following roleplayers is critical for the successful evolution and sustainability of the Science Diplomacy Capital for Africa:
- Diplomatic Missions
- National-Provincial-Local Government and Agencies
- Science Councils
- Universities
- Regional and Global Agencies
- the Private Sector
- and Civil Society.