Singapore and Africa: Collaborating for Digitalization and Sustainability

Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms. Candith Mashego-Dlamini, attended the Fourth Singapore–Sub-Saharan Africa High-Level Ministerial Exchange Conference (SSSAHLME) and the Sixth Africa–Singapore Business Forum in Singapore from 29-31 August 2023. The conference was based on the theme “Singapore and Africa: Partners in Digitalization and Sustainability,” highlighting digitalization, manufacturing, and sustainability as significant areas of cooperation between South Africa, Africa, Singapore, and Southeast Asia.

Areas of Collaboration

Through mutual collaboration and knowledge sharing, these areas hold immense potential for fostering economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development. This partnership can help deepen economic ties and contribute to the creation of a more robust and prosperous future for all stakeholders involved.

The Africa–Singapore Business Forum

The Africa–Singapore Business Forum (ASBF) was launched in 2010 and has become a vital platform for business exchange in fostering trade and investment between Africa and Asia. South Africa was one of the ten sub-Saharan African countries invited to the inaugural event. The Singaporean Government has focused on Africa as a source of new markets for Singapore-based companies and international trade. The biennial ASBF and the Singapore–Sub-Saharan High-Level Ministerial Exchange Visit are examples of Singapore’s initiatives towards this.

ASBF 2023

The 2023 ASBF’s theme was “Driving Africa’s Growth through Digitalization, Innovation & Sustainability” and featured insights from business practitioners across various high-growth sectors in Africa. This included digital technology, sustainable urban development, consumer sector, and manufacturing.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

South Africa and Singapore have enjoyed cordial bilateral relations since establishing diplomatic ties in 1993. Numerous agreements have been signed to enhance cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, skills transfer, and defense. The shared commitment to promoting economic growth and regional stability has resulted in increased collaboration in several areas.

The Fourth Singapore–Sub-Saharan Africa High-Level Ministerial Exchange Conference and the Sixth Africa–Singapore Business Forum have played a crucial role in strengthening ties between South Africa, Africa, Singapore, and Southeast Asia. By prioritizing digitalization, manufacturing, and sustainability, these regions aim to create a more resilient and prosperous future. Continued cooperation and knowledge sharing hold immense potential for growth and innovation within this partnership.