Our Triumphs

The Triumphs of the South African Drone Council

Empowering the Future, One Flight at a Time

Introduction

In the dynamic realm of drone technology, the South African Drone Council stands as a beacon of innovation and progress. Established in 2020 under the visionary leadership of Mister Stella Ndabeni, from the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, our council has soared to new heights, overcoming challenging obstacles along the way. This marketing document proudly showcases our remarkable achievements and contributions to the thriving drone industry in South Africa.

Setting the Stage: Our Genesis

The Drone Council SA took its initial flight in 2019, born out of a collective industry response. Our mission was clear: to unite established companies and ambitious newcomers, creating a powerful platform for collaboration. While we had initially planned a grand, all-inclusive launch in May 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic prompted a necessary postponement. Undeterred, we pressed forward, adhering to our core principle of membership-based empowerment. Our primary goal: to organize, unite, and catalyse robust development within South Africa’s burgeoning drone economy.

Planting the Seeds of Success

Our journey began in March 2019 when the Department of Economic Development (now part of DTIC) initiated a groundbreaking Drone Economy Dialogue. This dialogue brought together government entities, the drone industry, training institutions, research bodies, and regulatory authorities. Fuelled by extensive consultations, the Drone Economy Workgroup emerged, concentrating on three pivotal workstreams:

  1. Drone Industry SMME Incubation and Licensing
  2. Drone Industry Development
  3. Drone Industry Data and Regulatory Environment

With a comprehensive database that embraces both seasoned industry players and fresh license holders, we set the stage for transformative progress.

Flying High: Our Remarkable Success Stories

The South African Drone Council has left an indelible mark on the industry, contributing significantly to various master plans for the government, including:

  • National Aerospace and Defence Master Plan
  • DCDT 4IR Masterplan
  • MICT Seta Masterplan
  • NATIONAL CIVIL AVIATION TRANSFORMATION STRATEGY

Our dedicated members actively engage in multiple aerospace sector committees, shaping the future through organizations such as:

  • Civil Aviation Regulatory Committee (CARCOM)
  • Teta Aerospace Chamber
  • SA CAA Drone Liaison Forum
  • ATNS CNS Regulatory Unmanned Air Mobility Work Group

Projects That Soar Above the Rest

Our commitment to progress extends to a series of impactful projects:

  • Western Cape Government Community of Practice – Drone/UAV Sandbox Initiative
  • Pioneering and promoting new drone regulations (Part 71) to expand youth access.
  • Development and submission of new international drone regulations (Part 72)
  • Successful completion of a one-year Internship project benefiting 20 interns
  • Accreditation of Durban University as a Drone Training Center, with Nelson Mandela Bay on the horizon
  • Participation in the World Food Programme Drone Initiative
  • Pioneering a sandbox project for a Drone Port in multiple provinces
  • Active initiatives empowering 27 TVET colleges as 4IR centres of excellence.
  • Implementation of a program upskilling TVET lecturers and staff on 4IR advantages, opportunities, and regulations

Current Collaborative Projects: Join Us in Shaping Tomorrow

  • Empowering TVET lecturers
  • Unlocking Drone regulations for executives
  • RPC training at universities and TVETs
  • Awareness campaigns
  • Bridging legacy degrees with 4IR skills

Conclusion: Together We Soar

The South African Drone Council’s journey is a testament to our commitment to innovation, collaboration, and progress. As we continue to empower the future, we invite you to join us on this remarkable flight toward limitless possibilities in the world of drones. Together, we will shape a brighter, more innovative tomorrow.