The Department of Communications & Digital Technologies has unveiled a national policy framework for artificial intelligence and is seeking input from the ICT sector and other stakeholders. This framework represents the initial step towards developing a comprehensive national AI policy for South Africa.
Once finalized, the AI policy will form the “foundational basis” for establishing AI regulations and possibly an AI Act. The department’s statement noted that the policy framework was developed after “extensive international benchmarking,” which highlighted key strategic areas for AI policy development.
The department is now moving towards “formal consultations” with stakeholders, aiming to complete this process by the end of September. Feedback on the framework document is being solicited via email, and the full document is available here (PDF).
“By embracing AI’s transformative potential, this framework seeks to address pressing national challenges and leverage opportunities across all sectors in our economy. The policy framework’s primary objective is to foster a robust AI ecosystem through coordinated efforts in research and development, talent cultivation, and infrastructure enhancement,” the department stated.
The department emphasized that for South Africa to fully realize AI’s benefits, ethical, social, and economic implications must be carefully considered. This includes ensuring widespread benefits while effectively managing risks associated with AI technologies.
“As AI technologies rapidly advance, they offer unprecedented opportunities for economic growth, improved public services, and enhanced quality of life. However, without a coherent and comprehensive policy position, these benefits could be overshadowed by potential risks such as job displacement, privacy concerns, and ethical dilemmas,” the department explained.
The national AI policy will outline clear guidelines and a structured approach to harnessing AI’s potential while addressing its risks, aligning with South Africa’s socioeconomic goals and values. It will also encourage the development of sector-specific strategies to drive innovation and efficiency in areas such as healthcare, education, and finance.
The framework focuses on several strategic pillars: talent and skills development, enhancement of digital infrastructure, promotion of research and innovation, and the integration of AI into public sector operations. It emphasizes ethical AI, with a focus on fairness, transparency, and mitigating biases, while maintaining human oversight and aligning with global AI governance standards.