BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
KWALUSENI– African leaders have called for stronger cooperation in science, technology and innovation, urging the continent to unite and develop homegrown solutions that can drive sustainable development and economic transformation.
The call took centre stage during the launch of National Science Month 2026 at the University of Eswatini Sports Emporium on Monday. The event, hosted by the Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology (ICT) in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Training, brought together policymakers, academics, researchers and students to celebrate scientific advancement and innovation.
Delivering the keynote address, ICT Minister Savannah Maziya challenged African nations to move beyond discussions and take meaningful action that strengthens collaboration across borders.
She said Africa’s future depends on its ability to work together, share knowledge and build programmes that address the continent’s unique challenges.
“As Africans, it is time for us to focus on collaboration rather than our differences. We must move beyond discussions and paper agreements and create real programmes that make a difference in people’s lives,” said Maziya.
The Minister stressed that Africa can no longer afford to remain a consumer of technology and innovation developed elsewhere. Instead, she said, countries must invest in research, innovation and partnerships that will enable the continent to produce solutions tailored to their own needs.
Adding his voice to the discussion, South Africa’s Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, echoed the importance of collective action. He said deeper collaboration among African countries is essential for strengthening research capacity, advancing innovation and achieving long-term self-reliance.
Professor Nzimande noted that no single country can achieve the level of scientific transformation required to compete globally on its own. He emphasized that partnerships and knowledge-sharing will be critical in building a strong continental innovation ecosystem capable of driving sustainable growth.
As National Science Month 2026 unfolds, the message from leaders remains clear: Africa’s greatest strength lies in its ability to work together. Through collaboration, innovation and a shared vision, the continent can unlock its scientific potential and position itself as a global force in technology and development.
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