04/09/2026
Ministerial Visit to Coega SEZ | 04 September 2026
Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, highlighted the strategic role of the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in advancing South Africa’s science, technology and innovation agenda.
Minister Nzimande said Coega presents a natural fit for government’s vision of linking industrialisation, research, science and technology, particularly through the proposed establishment of a Science, Technology and Innovation Park.
He highlighted Coega’s potential to drive innovation-led industrialisation, citing work already underway in areas such as green hydrogen, advanced manufacturing and locally developed intellectual property.
Minister Nzimande also emphasised the need to strengthen collaboration between government, industry, research institutions, universities and communities, while taking science, technology and innovation beyond national structures and embedding it at provincial, district and local level.
He further called for stronger regional innovation ecosystems that can harness local strengths, equip young people with future-oriented skills and turn local challenges into economic opportunities.
“I have no doubt that the moment we have a technopark here, this place and this Eastern Cape is going to fly,” stated Minister Nzimande.