Overview
The inaugural Africa Science Diplomacy Conference (ASDC) is a premier gathering of policymakers, diplomats, scientists, researchers, industry leaders and international partners committed to advancing science diplomacy in Africa. The conference will explore how scientific collaboration can strengthen international cooperation, address shared global challenges, and support sustainable development across the continent and beyond.
ASDC provides a platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange and partnership building among stakeholders working at the intersection of science, technology, innovation and international relations. The conference will examine how science diplomacy can be leveraged to foster collaboration, strengthen multilateralism, and contribute to evidence-informed policymaking in an increasingly interconnected world.
Dates and Host
The inaugural Africa Science Diplomacy Conference will take place from 30 November to 1 December 2026 and will be hosted by the South African Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) through the Science Diplomacy Capital for Africa (SDCfA) platform.
The conference will be held immediately before Science Forum South Africa, taking place from 2 to 4 December 2026, providing participants with a unique opportunity to engage in a week-long programme of discussions on science, technology and innovation. Together, these events will create a valuable platform for networking, collaboration and engagement with leading voices from Africa and around the world.
Why Science Diplomacy Matters
Science diplomacy is becoming an increasingly important tool for addressing complex global and regional challenges that transcend national borders. From climate change and public health to food security, biodiversity and emerging technologies, many of today’s most pressing issues require international cooperation grounded in scientific knowledge and shared expertise.
The conference will examine the role of science diplomacy with, for and by Africa in strengthening international cooperation, including in support of the implementation of Africa’s Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy (STISA 2034). It will also highlight Africa’s growing contribution to global science diplomacy and the continent’s role in shaping collaborative responses to shared societal challenges. The ASDC will engage international partners across diverse themes.
Looking Ahead
ASDC is envisioned as a biennial event that will serve as a leading platform for science diplomacy dialogue in Africa. By bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise, the conference seeks to strengthen Africa’s voice in global science diplomacy, foster new partnerships, and contribute to a more collaborative and sustainable future.
Through continued engagement and cooperation, ASDC aims to support the development of strong networks that advance science, innovation and diplomacy as powerful instruments for addressing shared challenges and creating opportunities for future generations.
Strategic themes
➜ View the strategic themes and conference tracks
Who Should Attend?
The conference is designed for a broad range of stakeholders, including:
- Policymakers and government representatives
- Diplomats and foreign affairs practitioners
- Scientists and researchers
- Universities and research institutions
- Industry and private sector leaders
Civil society organisations - International organisations and development partners
- Science, technology and innovation practitioners
- Regional and global science diplomacy networks
A Platform for Dialogue and Partnership
Building on South Africa’s unique position as a hub for scientific collaboration and international engagement, ASDC will bring together a diverse range of stakeholders to debate emerging issues, exchange ideas, strengthen networks and identify opportunities for collaboration.
The conference will convene both traditional and non-traditional partners, reflecting the increasingly diverse landscape of actors involved in science diplomacy. Through keynote addresses, panel discussions and networking opportunities, participants will engage with current trends, emerging challenges and future opportunities in the field.
ASDC aims to foster meaningful dialogue across sectors and disciplines while strengthening relationships between African and global partners working to advance science, technology and innovation for societal benefit.