NEWS

On Friday, 11 July 2025, the Science Diplomacy Capital for Africa (SDCfA) hosted a well-attended online Diplomatic Community and Stakeholder Briefing to introduce two of South Africa’s most significant upcoming science events: Science Forum South Africa (SFSA) 2025 and the World Conference of Science Journalists (WCSJ) 2025. Both will be held at the CSIR International Convention Centre (CSIR ICC) in Pretoria, South Africa, later this year.

The webinar brought together members of the diplomatic corps, representatives from international and regional organisations, science policymakers, and members of the media and science communication community.

In opening remarks, Cecil Masoka of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) emphasised the importance of collaborative engagement across borders and sectors in strengthening Africa’s role in global science diplomacy. He highlighted South Africa’s growing influence as a hub for scientific cooperation and dialogue.

Ndumiso Cingo, Chair of the SDCfA Steering Committee, introduced the vision of the Science Diplomacy Capital for Africa — an initiative that anchors Pretoria as a convening space for science diplomacy on the continent. The SDCfA brings together embassies, science councils, and multilateral organisations to facilitate international collaboration in science, technology, and innovation (STI).

Science Forum South Africa (SFSA) 2025

Scheduled for 24–28 November 2025, SFSA 2025 will take place under the theme: “Igniting Conversations about Science – Placing Science, Technology and Innovation at the Centre of Government, Education, Industry and Society.”

Vinny Pillay (DSTI) and Bronwen Cadle de Ponte (SDCfA Steering Committee) outlined the objectives and opportunities for engagement. SFSA remains a flagship platform for inclusive science dialogue in Africa.

World Conference of Science Journalists (WCSJ) 2025

Taking place from 1–5 December 2025, WCSJ 2025 will welcome science journalists, editors, communicators, researchers, and thought leaders from around the world.

Mandi Smallhorne, WCSJ 2025 Conference Director, introduced the theme: “Science Journalism and Social Justice: Journalism That Builds Understanding and Resilience.”

Hunadi Mokgalaka, on behalf of the SDCfA Steering Committee, closed the session by inviting all diplomatic missions, media organisations, research institutions and science diplomacy partners to get involved — and help make these back-to-back gatherings a milestone for science engagement on the continent.

A recording of the online briefing and a downloadable copy of the presentation are now available for those who were unable to attend or would like to revisit the discussion.
🔗 Watch the recording
📄 Download the presentation

As South Africa prepares to welcome the world to Pretoria for these two landmark events, the SDCfA reaffirmed its commitment to fostering dialogue, connection, and collaboration in science.