The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) are set to work together to develop technologies and infrastructure to support socio-economic development in South Africa and Southern Africa.

The parties recently signed a framework agreement to collaborate on projects of mutual interest, in fields such as water, energy including bioethanol production, infrastructure development, emerging and small-farmer support, and the DBSA’s Development Labs known as D-Labs. D-Labs are development precincts designed to create economic development spaces within communities where all local participants are connected and have access to digital presence, technologies and information.

The partnership is expected to pave the way for the commercialisation of CSIR technologies in a bid to boost the competitiveness of local industries and regional economies. This is in line with the CSIR’s strategy, which aims to use science, technology and innovation to strengthen industrial development and the creation of a capable state.  

The DBSA plays a critical role in supporting the government to leverage skills and capabilities to accelerate the implementation of infrastructure programmes in the key priority sectors of the economy, such as energy, information and communication technology, water and sanitation, education and health, as well as various municipal infrastructure programmes.

CSIR Chief Executive Officer Dr Thulani Dlamini, welcomed the partnership, stating that the parties are well aligned to contribute to the improvement of the country’s industries.

“The CSIR is very pleased to be working with DBSA. This partnership brings together complimentary capabilities in innovation and development which could see us make a significant impact in South Africa and also the region,” says Dlamini.

DBSA Chief Executive Patrick Dlamini says, “The DBSA recognises that technology is key in helping us achieve our mandate of promoting economic development and inclusive growth. As a result, we are excited about this partnership as it will enable both organisations to unlock growth in our economy.”

ENDS

Issued by the CSIR and the DBSA

For media enquires:

David Mandaha: CSIR Media Relations Manager
Email: dmandaha@csir.co.za
Mobile: 072 126 8910

OR

Sebolelo Matsoso: Head of Communications
Email: sebolelom@dbsa.org
Mobile: 076 716 8429

About the CSIR

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, commonly known as the CSIR, is a world-class African research and development organisation established through an Act of Parliament in 1945. The CSIR undertakes directed, multidisciplinary research and technological innovation that contributes to the improved quality of life of South Africans.

About the DBSA

The Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) is a leading Development Finance Institution (DFI) operating across Sub Saharan Africa. Established in 1983, the DBSA participates across the entire infrastructure value chain and provides planning, project preparation, financing, and implementation support for economic and social infrastructure in South Africa, SADC and the rest of the African continent. The institution’s mission is to improve people’s lives, boost economic growth and promote regional integration through infrastructure development.  For more information, visit www.dbsa.org