President Cyril Ramaphosa and his delegation have arrived in San Jose, California, for a working visit to Silicon Valley aimed at strengthening South Africa’s position in the rapidly expanding global artificial intelligence (AI) economy.
The President will engage leading technology companies, researchers and investors on opportunities in AI, robotics and digital infrastructure.
The visit comes against the backdrop of strained diplomatic and trade relations between Pretoria and Washington.
Ramaphosa is leading a delegation of ministers, business leaders, academics, researchers and students to one of the world’s leading technology hubs.
The programme includes engagements at Stanford University and with major technology companies, including Google and Microsoft.
Discussions will focus on artificial intelligence, robotics, cybersecurity, data centres and investment opportunities.
The Presidency says South Africa wants to strengthen its technological capabilities, develop skills and position itself as a competitive AI hub on the African continent.
The challenge will be translating these engagements into economic opportunities back home.
VIDEO | Ramaphosa arrives in US for AI engagements
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s has landed in San Jose, California, marking the start of a week-long working visit to Silicon Valley focused on artificial intelligence, robotics and emerging technologies. The visit includes engagements with leading technology companies, researchers and Stanford University.
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— Sherwin Bryce-Pease (@sherwiebp) November 14, 2026