The 2025 World Economic Forum, set to be held in Davos from January 20 to 24, provides an unparalleled platform for South Africa to assert itself as a global leader in technology and sustainability, said Simsciex Technologies founder and Presidential Commission on the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) presidential adviser Nomso Kana.

In an opinion piece submitted to Engineering News on Thursday, she explains that it is time to recognise South Africa's untapped potential as a powerhouse of technology innovation and sustainable energy solutions.

“Davos will undoubtedly focus on emerging technologies, the future of work and the urgent need for job creation – all areas where broadband access is essential. In our interconnected world, education, healthcare and entrepreneurship thrive on fast, reliable Internet.”

She commented that broadband is not simply about getting online, it is about levelling the playing field.

“Broadband connectivity and nuclear energy are not just South Africa's future; they are Africa's future. To unlock this potential, we need a collaborative, forward-thinking approach that transcends borders and leaves no one behind.”

While the country faces immense challenges, from bridging the global digital divide to urgently transitioning to sustainable energy, there are profound opportunities for transformation.

“As both a broadband entrepreneur and a nuclear scientist, I see South Africa uniquely positioned to lead this charge, not just for Africa, but for the global community,” she said.

While the South African government and private sector have made strides in expanding broadband access, further investment is crucial, particularly in underserved rural communities, where a significant gap remains.

Research ICT Africa reveals that almost a third of South Africa's population still lacks reliable Internet access.

“We must accelerate the rollout of affordable, high-speed Internet and equip local communities with the digital skills to fully leverage its potential,” Kana said.

“Africa's technology sector is brimming with innovation, but without universal broadband, we risk a two-tiered economy. Global investors should seize this opportunity to support African technology initiatives that use broadband as a catalyst for growth, job creation and social empowerment.”

She added that the global dialogue on sustainability at Davos must include a focus on nuclear energy.

While renewables such as solar and wind are vital, nuclear power provides a complementary, reliable and low-carbon baseload solution.

“Our reliance on coal has hindered both economic and environmental progress. Nuclear energy presents a chance to diversify our energy mix, reduce greenhouse-gas emissions and provide a stable, dependable power source for industries, homes and communities.”

Despite an abundance of renewable-energy resources, many African nations remain energy-poor, limiting their economic potential, and South Africa, with its expertise in nuclear technology, can serve as a blueprint for other countries seeking to adopt cleaner, more sustainable energy systems.

“This is the message I aim to convey: nuclear energy is not a relic of the past, but a crucial tool for a low-carbon future. South Africa is uniquely positioned to spearhead this effort, not just for itself, but for the entire continent. Global energy leaders should invest in Africa's energy future, recognising that the continent's success is intrinsically linked to global sustainability,” she affirmed.

As the challenges demanding collaborative solutions – climate change, digital transformation and energy security – are confronted, it is vital that Africa's voice is amplified on the world stage.

There is a need for a paradigm shift in how the world engages with Africa.

“Too often, the focus is on what Africa can offer the rest of the world. It is time to recognise Africa's invaluable contributions to innovation and view the continent as an equal partner in shaping the future,” Kana pointed out, adding that South Africa's participation at Davos is crucial, not only because of its expertise in broadband and nuclear energy, but because the country represents the potential of a continent brimming with talent, ideas and untapped markets.

“South African leaders, from technology entrepreneurs to energy experts, exemplify the resilience, ingenuity and innovation driving our continent's progress. Our startup ecosystem is flourishing, and our technology and energy solutions are making waves across Africa and beyond.”

At Davos 2025, greater collaboration between Africa and the global community must be championed.

“This involves investing in African talent, supporting local innovation hubs and ensuring African nations have a seat at the table when shaping global policy on technology and sustainability. Acknowledging Africa's potential is not enough, it is time for the world to invest in it.

“I urge global leaders, investors and institutions to recognise South Africa's vital role in the global economy and partner with us in building a future that is inclusive, sustainable and innovative. Together, we can create a world where technology empowers all, where energy is abundant and sustainable, and where Africa's voice resonates powerfully on the global stage,” Kana concluded.