The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Blade Nzimande, will undertake a strategic engagement and site visit to the East London Industrial Development Zone (ELIDZ) Science and Technology Park (STP) on Friday, 16 October 2026.
This initiative follows recent ministerial visits to SASOL in Sasolburg and Coega in Gqeberha, forming part of the Ministry’s ongoing drive to strengthen the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation’s (DSTI) relationship with industry and support innovation-led industrialisation.
The visit reinforces the Eastern Cape’s commitment to innovation-led industrialisation, investment attraction, skills development and enterprise growth, positioning the ELIDZ STP as a strategic platform for inclusive economic growth and job creation.
It will showcase the STP’s role in supporting innovation, enterprise development, and technical skills, while exploring opportunities for collaboration to advance South Africa’s science, technology, and industrialisation agenda.
Established in 2014, the ELIDZ STP is the first and only Science and Technology Park in South Africa fully integrated within a Special Economic Zone (SEZ). Through incubation, product development, specialised facilities, and technology support, it connects innovation with industry and helps entrepreneurs bring their ideas to market. The STP currently supports more than 71 enterprises, contributing directly to industrial competitiveness and economic development in the Eastern Cape.
Members of the media are invited to attend the event as follows:
Date: Friday, 16 October 2026
Time: 10:00
Venue: ELIDZ Science and Technology Park, East London
RSVP and Media Enquiries:
Mr Veli Mbele
Media Liaison Officer and Spokesperson to the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation
Cell: 064 615 0644
Email: veli.mbele@dsti.gov.za
ELIDZ Media Enquiries:
Siphosethu Tikana (CPRP)
Acting Manager: Marketing & Corporate Communications
East London Industrial Development Zone
Cell: +27 64 900 8392
Email: siphosethuti@elidz.co.za