Africa Science Diplomacy Conference (ASDC) 2026
Overview
The inaugural Africa Science Diplomacy Conference (ASDC) 2026 will take place from 30 November to 1 December 2026 in South Africa, under the theme “Science Diplomacy with, for and by Africa.”
Hosted by the South African Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) through the Science Diplomacy Capital for Africa (SDCfA) initiative, the conference will bring together policymakers, diplomats, scientists, researchers, industry leaders and international partners to strengthen science diplomacy and international cooperation.
The conference will precede Science Forum South Africa (2–4 December 2026), providing participants with opportunities to engage in discussions and networking activities focused on science, technology and innovation.
Conference Focus
ASDC 2026 will explore how science diplomacy can address regional and global challenges, including climate change, public health, food security, biodiversity and emerging technologies.
The conference will focus on five strategic themes:
- Science Diplomacy for Global Solidarity and Multilateralism: Strengthening international cooperation and collective responses to global challenges.
- Science Diplomacy in Support of STISA 2034: Supporting the implementation of Africa’s Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy 2034.
- Global Partnerships with and within Africa: Promoting scientific collaboration between African institutions and international partners.
- The Science of Science Diplomacy: Examining the approaches, evidence and practices that underpin effective science diplomacy.
- Science Diplomacy for Trade, Investment and Innovation: Exploring how scientific cooperation can support economic development, investment and innovation.
Who Should Attend?
The conference targets policymakers, diplomats, scientists, researchers, industry representatives and international organisations engaged in science, technology, innovation and international cooperation.
It is particularly relevant to stakeholders interested in Africa–Europe scientific partnerships, research collaboration, evidence-informed policymaking and innovation ecosystems.
Expected Outcomes
The conference aims to strengthen cooperation between African and international stakeholders, facilitate knowledge exchange and encourage new partnerships in science, technology and innovation.
It also seeks to support the implementation of STISA 2034, promote evidence-informed policymaking and identify opportunities for collaborative responses to shared societal challenges.
Envisioned as a biennial event, ASDC aims to establish a long-term platform for science diplomacy dialogue and international partnerships involving Africa.
Key Dates
- Conference dates: 30 November – 1 December 2026
- Deadline for session proposals: 31 August 2026
- Announcement of successful session proposals: 15 September 2026
- Announcement of successful attendance applications: 30 September 2026
- Deadline for attendance applications: 15 November 2026