Global & South Africa 3D and 4D Technology Market to 2031

In November 2024, the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in South Africa teamed up with the University of Glasgow in Scotland to advance 3D-printed propulsion systems for space applications. This joint research project, backed by approximately US$108,000 from the UK Government through the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), aims to push the frontiers of propulsion technology in space exploration. The collaboration highlights South Africa’s emerging role in the global 3D and 4D technology landscape, especially within the aerospace industry. As the initiative progresses, it is expected to enhance South Africa’s reputation in additive manufacturing, stimulate research and innovation, and attract new investments to the country’s rapidly growing high-tech sectors.

The partnership also marks a significant development in South Africa's ongoing efforts to become a major contributor to global space innovation. It aligns with the country’s broader strategic goals, which include participating in international space missions and advancing satellite technology. South Africa’s increasing prominence in space research is reflected through initiatives led by the South African National Space Agency (SANSA), which plays a crucial role in shaping space technology initiatives across Africa.

Financial support from the UK Government, combined with both domestic and international contributions, is anticipated to fuel further advances in additive manufacturing. South Africa has already made notable progress in this area, particularly in aerospace, and is well-positioned to apply these technologies across other sectors such as automotive production, healthcare innovation, and sustainable construction. This growing expertise in 3D and 4D printing is strengthening the country's technological edge and contributing to its role as a regional leader in advanced manufacturing and space technology.