Highlight #2 – The SBIC continues to actively support drone technology in South Africa.

The SBIC, in collaboration with RIIS and the Burooj Institute conducted a study that was funded by the FCDO, the development arm of the UK Government, to look at assessing the drone ecosystem for South Africa and Kenya, specifically with the intent of how to lock opportunities. Through intensive stakeholder engagement, we found that there is a big need and drive towards creating a drone corridor in South Africa in the long run. In the short term, the need for a sandbox came out. The sand box would create a space for the industry to innovate.

Last year, the WCG did a study that looked to support the drone industry and how a sand box would look like. It came out that creating a sandbox is quite a complex process. Right now, the SBIC in collaboration with stakeholders will be working on establishing a drone corridor. Saldanha Bay has been earmarked as the suitable location for this sand box. We are looking forward to sharing more updates on this work as we continue to engage with the different stakeholders for collaboration.