South Africa and China Forge AI and Digital Partnership to Expand Connectivity

The Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies , Mr. Solly Malatsi, led a high-level South African delegation on an investment-focused visit to China. Engagements took place in Beijing, Shenzhen, and Shanghai, aimed at securing in support for South Africa’s digital transformation agenda.

The delegation comprised senior officials responsible for digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, bilateral partnerships, and communications. Their collective mandate was to engage Chinese partners on projects that could accelerate connectivity, enhance digital skills and support inclusive innovation across South Africa.

One of the key outcomes of the visit was the formal advancement of a proposed Memorandum of Understanding on Artificial Intelligence cooperation between South Africa and China. This agreement will unlock collaborative research, innovation and application of AI in critical sectors such as education, agriculture, and public service delivery.

In an engagement with the China Satellite Network Company (CSNC), the delegation explored the development of a satellite broadband initiative to improve last-mile connectivity in rural and underserved communities. This aligns with South Africa’s commitment to closing the digital divide and enhancing access to education, healthcare, and digital public infrastructure.

The delegation also held talks with the Export-Import Bank of China, where the Department highlighted the urgent need for increased development financing to support South Africa’s digital infrastructure rollout—particularly the expansion of broadband connectivity to remote and disadvantaged areas.

As part of efforts to increase digital access, the Minister visited the headquarters of Chinese technology companies, including Honor and Huawei. These engagements formed part of a broader initiative in support of our campaign for smart devices learners and entrepreneurs. To this end, some exciting partnerships were secured which will be announced in the coming days.

The South African delegation also participated in a roundtable hosted by the China Branch of the BRICS Institute of Future Networks, which brought together major Chinese ICT firms to explore collaboration on broadband expansion, smart device accessibility, and digital skills development. The discussions reflected growing international interest in South Africa’s digital policy direction and economic potential.

The delegation attended the 2025 World Artificial Intelligence Conference and the High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance in Shanghai. These engagements highlighted the rapid pace at which AI is transforming the world and reinforced the urgency for global collaboration in ensuring that AI technologies are inclusive, ethical, and development-oriented.

These engagements underscore South Africa’s commitment to building international partnerships aligned with its national development priorities. Through increased investment, shared expertise, and deepened digital cooperation, the government aims to ensure that all South Africans, particularly those in underserved communities can also participate meaningfully in the digital economy.