Nzimande releases funding review as science sector faces donor shifts

Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Blade Nzimande released a review of science funding in Pretoria on Tuesday, saying South Africa needed to adjust its policies as international priorities and geopolitical conditions changed.

SABC News reported that the minister presented the working group’s report following the withdrawal of United States funding from major South African research programmes, particularly those focused on HIV and tuberculosis.

The department had commissioned the group to examine both the immediate effects and longer-term consequences for the country’s research and innovation system.

Its brief included identifying vulnerabilities caused by dependence on overseas funding and recommending ways to strengthen investment by South Africa’s public and private sectors.

According to the department’s announcement ahead of the release, the work was also intended to support an increase in research and development spending from approximately 0.6% of gross domestic product towards a national target of 1.5%.

That figure was presented as an ambition for the science system. The announcement did not set out a new funding allocation.

In his remarks reported by SABC, Nzimande said South Africa had to respond to changes involving the United States, the United Kingdom and the European Union. He linked those changes to the risks of relying on external partners for essential research and health capabilities.

He cited restrictions during the Covid-19 pandemic that disrupted access to vaccines and treatments, as well as the US announcement in January 2025 that it would withdraw support for major South African health research and clinical programmes.

The working group’s remit extends across biomedical research, health studies and clinical trials. The department said the review formed part of its effort to secure more sustainable resources and stronger coordination for the public science system.

Sources: South African Government / Department of Science, Technology and Innovation; SABC News.