Specno has urged South Africa’s government to expedite the finalization of a comprehensive national AI policy. The draft framework, published for public comment, aims to foster growth in key sectors and address challenges like the digital divide and high unemployment. The AI industry is projected to significantly contribute to the continent’s GDP by 2030, making prompt action essential for leveraging this technology.
Specno has urged the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies in South Africa to promptly finalize a national policy on artificial intelligence (AI). This follows the issuance of a draft National AI Policy Framework for public comment in October 2022, marking a significant initial step towards establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework to enhance South Africa’s infrastructure, digital economy, and social growth in the AI sector.
Daniel Novitzkas, Chairman at Specno, noted that despite South Africa being the second largest economy in Africa and expected to lead AI development, other nations such as Nigeria, Mauritius, and Rwanda are advancing their respective AI strategies. Rwanda is set to host Africa’s first AI Global Summit in April, underlining the continent’s emerging role in the global AI economy.
The projected growth of the AI industry across Africa could generate $1.2 trillion by 2030, contributing a 5.6% increase to the continent’s GDP. It is imperative for South Africa to adapt swiftly in order to capitalize on this burgeoning technology. Novitzkas emphasized that the draft policy acknowledges significant barriers to digital technology growth, including the digital divide and bureaucratic inertia within governmental systems that hinder progress.
As global advancements in AI continue, the importance of implementing a national framework becomes increasingly urgent. The draft policy suggests that AI could meet essential societal needs across various economic sectors, such as agriculture, healthcare, and education, while also creating numerous job opportunities to help mitigate South Africa’s unemployment crisis.
Additionally, Novitzkas highlighted how AI can address specific challenges faced by the nation, such as water scarcity exacerbated by climate change. AI-enabled sensors could effectively monitor pipeline integrity, while machine learning could optimize water management. AI technologies can also analyze satellite imagery to forecast droughts, aiding the agricultural sector in its planning.
The South African private sector’s readiness to embrace AI is evident, as Microsoft has pledged to train one million South Africans in AI and cybersecurity by 2026. Furthermore, MTN has partnered with China Telecom and Huawei to advance its 5G, cloud, and AI capabilities.
Novitzkas remarked on AI’s current limitations, stressing the importance of industry experts in maximizing its potential. He called for the government to expedite the policy framework with industry collaboration, allowing South Africa to stay competitive and enhance its reputation as an AI leader on the African continent.
In conclusion, Specno’s advocacy for the swift finalization of a national AI policy is crucial for South Africa to harness the potential of artificial intelligence in driving economic growth and social development. The need for collaboration between government and industry stakeholders is paramount to overcoming existing challenges and ensuring that South Africa remains competitive in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
