South Africa’s Department of Communications and Digital Technologies has initiated the process of formulating a national artificial intelligence (AI) policy by releasing a policy framework. This marks the initial phase in crafting comprehensive AI guidelines for the nation.
The department has set a deadline for the conclusion of the formal consultation period by the end of September 2024, during which it is open to receiving input on the framework through email.
The framework document underscores the necessity of a thoughtful approach to the ethical, societal, and economic aspects of AI. It advocates for the equitable distribution of AI’s advantages and the effective management of its associated risks.
The policy framework highlights the significance of AI that prioritizes human welfare, ensuring that AI supports rather than supplants human judgment, and promotes a climate favorable to AI-related innovation.
The establishment of a national AI policy in South Africa aims to steer the creation, implementation, and application of artificial intelligence. The National AI Policy is expected to lay out explicit directives and a systematic strategy for capitalizing on AI’s potential while addressing its challenges and aligning with the nation’s objectives and principles.
“The National AI Policy will lay the groundwork for the formulation of AI regulations and potentially an AI Act in South Africa. As regulatory bodies work towards setting AI norms and standards, it is imperative that these regulations are rooted in a clearly articulated policy framework that mirrors the nation’s aspirations and strategic intents regarding AI.”
The policy will focus on several key areas, including the cultivation of AI expertise to establish a robust talent pool, the improvement of digital infrastructure, the creation of ethical AI standards, and the assurance of safety and security, among other focal points.
South Africa’s artificial intelligence (AI) industry is attracting significant investment, evidenced by Microsoft South Africa’s announcement of a $70 million investment in May 2024. This investment is expected to bolster the AI sector, which is forecasted to expand from $0.90 billion in 2024 to an impressive $4.00 billion by 2030.
In addition to private sector investment, South Africa has demonstrated its commitment to integrating AI into national defence and security through the establishment of the Defence Artificial Intelligence Research Unit (DAIRU). DAIRU is poised to explore and harness the capabilities of AI for the enhancement of South Africa’s defence mechanisms and broader national development goals.
Meanwhile, Kenya, another African nation, is also advancing its AI agenda. In April 2024, Kenya embarked on a project to formulate a national AI strategy. This development followed recommendations from the Kenya Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Society, which called for regulatory measures for AI and robotic systems. Furthermore, the Kenya Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Society Bill 2023 was introduced in February, signaling Kenya’s proactive approach to shaping the future of AI within its borders.
These initiatives across the African continent reflect a growing recognition of the transformative potential of AI and the importance of establishing strategic frameworks to guide its ethical and effective deployment in various sectors.
