Specno has called on the South African government to expedite the finalization of a national AI policy, emphasizing collaboration with industry stakeholders. With other African nations advancing their AI strategies, South Africa risks falling behind despite the economic potential AI presents. The draft policy highlights challenges such as the digital divide but suggests AI can enhance critical sectors and create job opportunities. Industry readiness is evident, but government urgency is essential for maintaining a competitive edge in AI innovation.
Specno has urged the South African government to collaborate more closely with industry stakeholders in order to expedite the establishment of a comprehensive national policy regarding artificial intelligence (AI). The call comes on the heels of a draft National AI Policy Framework released by the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies for public commentary in October of the previous year. This framework is vital for fostering infrastructure, digital development, economic growth, and enhancing South Africa’s innovation status in AI on the global stage.
Daniel Novitzkas, Chairman at Specno, pointed out that despite South Africa being Africa’s second-largest economy, it is lagging behind other nations in developing their AI strategies. Countries such as Nigeria, Mauritius, and Rwanda are currently progressing towards their AI policies, with Rwanda even set to host the continent’s first AI Global Summit later this year, thus emphasizing the urgency of South Africa’s situation.
The AI sector is poised to contribute $1.2 trillion to the African economy by 2030, potentially boosting the continent’s GDP by 5.6%. Given this potential, South Africa must promptly adopt AI for the benefits associated with such growth. According to Novitzkas, the draft policy identifies multiple barriers hindering digital technological advancement, including a significant digital divide and historical inequalities that impact progress.
The global pace of AI advancement underscores the necessity for South Africa to implement a framework that maximizes technological innovations. The draft policy suggests that AI can significantly enhance sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, and public safety, while also creating new job opportunities that could help alleviate the nation’s unemployment dilemma.
Novitzkas elaborated on AI’s potential in addressing South Africa’s water scarcity challenges. AI technology can optimize water management with sensors that detect pipeline leaks and data analysis that predicts droughts, enabling proactive agricultural planning.
In the private sector, South African companies are positioned to leverage AI technology effectively. Microsoft plans to train one million South Africans in AI and cybersecurity by 2026, while MTN has partnered with China Telecom and Huawei to enhance its 5G and AI capabilities.
Novitzkas emphasized that although AI is not yet fully autonomous in application development, it is crucial for industry experts to drive its advancement. The government’s role is to accelerate the policy framework process while incorporating industry feedback, thereby ensuring that South Africa maintains its competitive edge in the African market and improves its reputation for innovation.
In conclusion, the appeal from Specno highlights a critical moment for South Africa as it seeks to establish a cohesive policy framework for AI. The urgency for collaboration between the government and industry stakeholders is evident in light of the growing global AI landscape. With impending economic benefits, significant technological advancements, and the need to address pressing social issues, prompt government action is paramount to secure South Africa’s place in the future of AI innovation.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
