RS Deputy Chairman Calls on Indian Diaspora in South Africa to Collaborate on Emerging Technologies

JOHANNESBURG, Sep 20: Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh has called on the Indian diaspora in South Africa to strengthen its engagement with India by exploring opportunities in emerging technologies and expanding economic cooperation between the two countries.
Addressing a community reception in Johannesburg on Friday, Harivansh said professionals, entrepreneurs and innovators of Indian origin could play a greater role in connecting India with South Africa and the wider African region. He had led an Indian parliamentary delegation to the 69th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Cape Town, held from September 12 to 19. Rediff
He encouraged members of the diaspora to consider opportunities in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, space technology, biotechnology, clean energy and digital public infrastructure. Harivansh also called on them to invest in India, support young innovators and contribute to stronger commercial partnerships.
Highlighting bilateral economic relations, he noted that South Africa is India’s leading trading partner in Africa and said more than 150 major Indian companies operate in the country, generating over 20,000 jobs. He said there was considerable potential to further expand trade, investment and industrial cooperation.
Harivansh also referred to India’s role in supporting greater African representation in global institutions, including the African Union’s inclusion as a permanent member of the G20 during India’s presidency in 2023.
He praised the Indian origin community in South Africa for its contributions across business, education, medicine, law, public service and culture. He also recalled Mahatma Gandhi’s years in South Africa and their influence on his later public life.
Calling for stronger future links, Harivansh urged the diaspora to use its expertise, business networks and investments to build closer partnerships between India, South Africa and Africa.