The Science Forum South Africa, held in Pretoria, South Africa, featured Dr. Nico Elema, Director of the Centre for Collaboration in Africa, who played a pivotal role in the event. As the Programme Director of the AUDA-NEPAD Southern African Network of Water Centres of Excellence and the lead of the ACEWATER-III project, Dr. Elema shared valuable insights into the mobilization of extensive research networks across Africa. His expertise highlighted the importance of collaboration in tackling water-related challenges on the continent.