Minister Malatsi Calls for a United, Inclusive Approach to AI in South Africa
In his keynote address, Malatsi described AI as “no longer on the horizon – it is here,” comparing its impact to previous industrial revolutions and highlighting its role in reshaping sectors from healthcare to tax administration.
South Africa’s Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Minister Malatsi, has urged a united approach to artificial intelligence (AI) development, emphasizing the need for AI systems that reflect local realities and drive inclusive growth. The remarks were delivered at Google’s flagship AI in Action event on Tuesday, where government, academia, and industry leaders convened to explore the transformative potential of AI technologies.
In his keynote address, Malatsi described AI as “no longer on the horizon – it is here,” comparing its impact to previous industrial revolutions and highlighting its role in reshaping sectors from healthcare to tax administration.
“AI is being used by SARS to detect fraud and prevent illicit tax refunds, protecting billions in public funds.”
– Solly Malatsi, Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, South Africa
Balancing Promise and Risk
While praising AI’s ability to fuel economic growth and improve service delivery, Malatsi cautioned against unchecked deployment, warning that it could “automate bias, reinforce inequality, and erode trust” if not managed responsibly.
“The promise of AI must reach everyone, not just the few. No one should be left behind in this revolution.”
– Solly Malatsi, Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, South Africa
Malatsi stressed the importance of developing “South African AI for South Africa” — technology trained on local data and tailored to national priorities such as food security, public health, and job creation.
Policy Roadmap and Partnerships
The minister referenced the government’s Draft National AI Policy, unveiled earlier this year, which outlines plans to leverage AI for inclusive economic growth and digital empowerment. Key initiatives include expanding digital infrastructure, integrating AI education into schools, and supporting local startups and institutions like the AI Institute of South Africa.
He called for strong public-private collaboration, commending Google’s efforts to localize AI for African languages and urging continued partnership with academia and industry leaders to build digital skills.
“Let us not merely consume AI developed elsewhere; let us build AI that speaks our languages, solves our problems, and tells our stories.”
– Solly Malatsi, Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, South Africa
Driving a Shared Digital Future
Closing his address, Malatsi underscored the need for a collective mission to ensure AI technologies serve humanity and contribute to a more equitable society.
“Technology must serve humanity — not the other way around. Through partnerships and collective efforts, we will ensure the promise of AI delivers real progress for all our people.”
– Solly Malatsi, Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, South Africa
