South Africa Advances AI Vision with New National Policy Framework

The recent publication of the national AI policy framework marks a significant milestone for South Africa. According to local media reports, this framework represents an essential “first step” in crafting a thorough national AI policy. The DCDT is currently seeking feedback from the information and communication technology (ICT) sector and other key stakeholders to refine and enhance the policy.

Goals and Strategic Focus of the Framework

The finalized AI policy is expected to provide the “foundational basis” for developing AI regulations and possibly an AI Act in South Africa. The framework document outlines several strategic pillars crucial for the growth of the AI ecosystem, including:

Research and Development: Encouraging innovation and advancing AI technologies.

Talent Cultivation: Developing a skilled workforce to support AI initiatives.

Infrastructure Enhancement: Building the necessary infrastructure to support AI growth.

This framework follows the approval of the “Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy” by the Executive Council of the African Union (AU) on August 9. The AU strategy aims to boost AI adoption across both public and private sectors among member states, reflecting a collective commitment to AI advancement on the continent.

The DCDT has emphasized that the policy framework was developed through extensive international benchmarking, ensuring alignment with global best practices. This approach helps South Africa’s framework to integrate strategic focuses observed in other leading countries.

The department plans to conduct formal consultations with stakeholders and aims to complete these discussions by the end of September. Stakeholders are encouraged to provide their feedback on the framework document via email.

AI Strategy Adoption Across Africa

The publication of South Africa’s policy framework is part of a broader trend across Africa, where countries are increasingly adopting AI strategies. As of July, six African nations—Algeria, Benin, Egypt, Mauritius, Rwanda, and Senegal—had developed stand-alone AI strategies.

Other countries, including Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritania, Morocco, Nigeria, Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda, are also making notable progress in defining AI policies and establishing institutions to drive AI development.

Nigeria’s Leading Role in AI Initiatives

Among African nations, Nigeria has emerged as a leader in AI adoption. The Nigerian government has launched a comprehensive initiative to train 1,000 Nigerians annually in cutting-edge technologies, including AI and blockchain. This proactive approach positions Nigeria at the forefront of AI development on the continent.

As South Africa moves forward with its national AI policy, the country is poised to contribute significantly to Africa’s growing AI landscape, reinforcing its position as a key player in the global AI arena.