South Africa’s Communication Minister Solly Malatsi Highlights AI’s Transformative Potential at SATNAC Conference

Hon. Solly Malatsi, South Africa’s Minister of Communication and Digital Technologies, addressed the Southern Africa Telecommunication Networks and Applications Conference (SATNAC) in Mpumalanga, highlighting the critical role of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping the nation’s digital future. Speaking under the conference’s theme, “The AI-Driven Hyperconnected Future: Co-creating Shared Value,” Minister Malatsi emphasized AI’s potential to drive economic and social progress while addressing ethical considerations.

In his address, Malatsi underscored the significance of SATNAC as a platform for innovation and collaboration within the ICT sector, celebrating its 26th year of bringing together over 300 delegates from industry, government, and academia. He emphasized the growing importance of AI globally and South Africa’s active role in embracing this technology to advance industries such as healthcare, mining, and digital identity.

Malatsi highlighted South Africa’s initiatives, including the establishment of the AI Institute of South Africa (AIISA) and the Centre for Artificial Intelligence Research (CAIR). These AI hubs, located at the University of Johannesburg and Tshwane University of Technology, have already delivered tangible results in local sectors, providing solutions tailored to South Africa’s unique challenges.

The minister also referenced key policy initiatives aimed at fostering a more connected society. Through the Digital Economy Masterplan and the SA Connect initiative, the government is committed to addressing the digital divide and ensuring connectivity in underserved regions. He expressed plans to attract investment by easing local ownership requirements and reducing data costs, calling for collaborative efforts to accelerate national connectivity goals.

Looking ahead, Malatsi reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to responsible AI deployment, ensuring that the technology respects privacy, human rights, and dignity. He announced South Africa’s upcoming role as the 2025 President of the G20 and emphasized the nation’s leadership in leveraging AI for inclusive, sustainable development. The G20 agenda includes promoting digital inclusion, universal connectivity, and the ethical use of AI.

The SATNAC conference provided a platform for South Africa to reaffirm its role as a key player in the global AI revolution, with Malatsi thanking Telkom, the Local Organising Committee, and other partners for fostering dialogue and innovation.