Minister Nzimande Hosts Cuban Ambassador to Strengthen Science and Innovation Ties
The department of science, technology and innovation says, the Minister of Science, technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, welcomed the Cuban Ambassador, Her Excellency Esther Armenteros, to South Africa on Wednesday, 2 July 2025.
The department says, Armenteros is paying South Africa a courtesy visit aimed at reinforcing long-standing scientific cooperation between the two countries.
The department further says, this visit highlighted more than 30 years of collaboration in key areas such as healthcare, water resource management and education. Since the first science and technology agreement signed in 2001, South Africa and Cuba have partnered on critical projects, including the development of cholera vaccines and diagnostic tools, with South Africa investing over R44 million between 2005 and 2007.
]The department says, during Minister Nzimande’s visit to Cuba in April this year, both countries signed a Statement of Intent to renew the existing agreement and broaden areas of cooperation.
The Minister emphasised the shared commitment to using science to tackle major challenges such as energy security and climate change, adding that Cuba’s strengths in biotechnology and education complement South Africa’s expertise in mining, renewable energy, and space science.
