South Africa’s ICT sector ready to collaborate with Saudi Arabia
President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that South Africa’s information and communications technology (ICT) industry is pursuing possible partnerships with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
During his state visit to the kingdom, Ramaphosa said he is looking to boost ties in mining technologies, ICT, and renewable energy, among others.
As a result, the President was able to finalize agreements and memorandums of understanding worth about $15 billion between the two countries.
“Having started in 2018 with a commitment by Saudi Arabia to invest $10 billion in the South African economy, in many ways, was planting the seed, and that seed has been germinating, and thus far, $1 billion has been invested in South Africa through a company called ACWA Power,” noted Ramaphosa.
The official also shared that South Africa’s services sectors and professional skills are highly regarded across the Middle East.
“Our engineers, doctors, and teachers have already made a mark here. We also have filmmakers, entertainment entrepreneurs, bankers, insurance firms, tourism companies, and information and communication technology businesses who are ready to partner with you,” he stated.
Ramaphosa added that he particularly looks forward to welcoming more of Saudi Arabia’s renewable energy firms and technologies in South Africa as the latter increase its renewable energy generation footprint and green energy components.
