Specno Urges South Africa to Expedite Finalization of Comprehensive AI Policy

Specno has requested the South African government to collaborate with industry stakeholders to finalize a national AI policy expeditiously. The draft framework published last year is a pivotal step for South Africa in the global AI arena. Challenges such as historical inequalities and bureaucratic hurdles must be mitigated for effective AI implementation, which promises numerous economic benefits.

Specno urges the South African government to work collaboratively with industry stakeholders to expedite the finalization of a comprehensive national policy on artificial intelligence (AI). In October of the previous year, the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies initiated this process by publishing a draft National AI Framework for public commentary. This framework is vital for South Africa to establish itself in the global AI innovation landscape, facilitating infrastructure, digital, economic, and social growth.

Daniel Novitzkas, Chairman of Specno, highlighted that despite South Africa being the second-largest economy in Africa, it has fallen behind countries such as Nigeria, Mauritius, and Rwanda in developing robust AI strategies. Rwanda will host Africa’s first-ever AI Global Summit in April, further emphasizing the urgency for South Africa to catch up. With expectations that the AI sector will generate $1.2 trillion by 2030, representing a 5.6% increase in the continent’s GDP, South Africa must act quickly to capitalize on this technological potential.

Novitzkas pointed out that the draft policy acknowledges several challenges hindering South Africa’s digital technology advancements. Issues such as a significant digital divide, intensified by historical inequalities, pose obstacles, while bureaucratic inertia within government entities may resist necessary reforms. Despite these challenges, the rapid global advancement of AI necessitates the adoption of frameworks to harness such innovations effectively.

The draft policy outlines AI’s potential to meet pressing social needs across vital economic sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, education, and public safety. The integration of AI technology could also help mitigate South Africa’s high unemployment crisis by creating numerous job opportunities. Moreover, AI applications can enhance the nation’s resilience to its pressing challenges, such as water scarcity. For instance, AI-powered sensors can be instrumental in detecting leaks and forecasting failures in water supply systems, while machine learning can optimize water usage through data analysis.

The private sector in South Africa exhibits readiness to leverage AI technology for national benefit. Companies such as Microsoft have pledged 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 cloud AI capabilities and business solutions.

Novitzkas emphasized the importance of expert industry involvement in maximizing AI’s potential, indicating that government must prioritize and speed up the development of a policy framework in collaboration with industry experts. This initiative is crucial for South Africa to maintain its competitiveness within the continent and enhance its standing in the global arena.

In conclusion, it is imperative for the South African government to expedite the creation of a comprehensive AI policy in partnership with industry stakeholders. The potential economic benefits of AI are substantial, with predictions indicating a significant contribution to the nation’s GDP. Addressing existing challenges through strategic policy initiatives will enable South Africa to capitalize on AI advancements, fostering growth and job creation while positioning the country competitively on the global stage.

Original Source: www.zawya.com