South Africa is taking a significant step towards embracing the digital revolution, leveraging Huawei's expertise, and unlocking the potential of advanced technologies for economic development and societal progress

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa inaugurated, on July 13, the Huawei Innovation Centre in Woodmead, Johannesburg. The cutting-edge facility, established by Huawei South Africa, aims to foster joint innovation, collaborate with local partners and developers, and showcase advanced digital technologies.

President Ramaphosa praised the Innovation Centre, calling it an impressive hub for technological breakthroughs. He highlighted its crucial role in propelling South Africa and the wider African continent into the Fourth Industrial Revolution, with technologies like 5G, Cloud, and AI being showcased at the centre.

The President emphasized the government's commitment to digital transformation, expressing hope that the Innovation Centre would spur the launch of local ICT enterprises and create employment opportunities. He acknowledged the significance of digital technologies in achieving national development goals and commended Huawei's confidence in the South African economy.

President Ramaphosa also acknowledged the role of digital technologies in enhancing sectors such as mining and transportation. He referenced the successful launch of the first 5G coal mine in South Africa, facilitated by Huawei's partnership with industry stakeholders and telecom partners, as an example of the company's contribution to the country's economic potential. “The application of digital technologies to improve production processes spans a broad range of economic sectors from mining to ports to transportation and others,” he said. 

Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of knowledge transfer, skills development, and the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and applauded Huawei's efforts in cultivating local digital talent through initiatives like the LEAP digital talent program, ICT academies, and Tech4All-DigiSchool projects. These initiatives align with the government's vision of empowering the youth and enabling their participation in the digital economy.

The Chinese Ambassador to South Africa, HE Chen Xiaodong, highlighted the significance of the Huawei Innovation Centre as a symbol of South Africa-China cooperation. He emphasized China's commitment to supporting South Africa in accelerating 5G deployment and embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

Leo Chen, President of Huawei Sub-Saharan Africa, commended South Africa's strong vision for its digital economy and its role as a continental and global role model for 5G deployment and industrial digital transformation. Chen reaffirmed Huawei's commitment to supporting South Africa's ICT infrastructure development and industry digitization through the introduction of the latest technologies. He also emphasized the company's dedication to training young South Africans, enabling their participation and benefit from the digital economy.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including Minister Stella Ndabeni Abrahams (Small Business Development) and Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga (Transport), along with representatives from government departments. Their presence underscored the government's endorsement and support for the Huawei Innovation Centre and its potential to drive the country's digital agenda.

With the inauguration of the Huawei Innovation Centre, South Africa takes a significant step towards embracing the digital revolution, leveraging Huawei's expertise, and unlocking the potential of advanced technologies for economic development and societal progress.

Hikmatu Bilali