Minister of Communications & Digital Technologies Solly Malatsi highlighted South Africa’s leadership in using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to drive economic growth and social change. Malatsi delivered a speech at the 27th Southern Africa Telecommunication Networks and Applications Conference (SATNAC) at Kruger National Park.
Recognising SATNAC as a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration within the ICT sector, Malatsi expressed deep appreciation for the event’s legacy of innovation.
“SATNAC has become a beacon of innovation and collaboration in our ICT sector, a platform that has grown over the years into a vital space for research, discussion, and partnership between industry, government, and academia,” he said.
The Minister applauded the conference’s theme for 2024, “AI-driven, hyper-connected future co-creating shared values,” and emphasised the significance of the discussions that will emerge from the event, especially as AI continues to dominate global conversations.
As part of his address, Malatsi referenced a key milestone in the government’s engagement with AI: “Earlier this year, the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, which I have the honour of leading, published a discussion document at the AI National Government Summit. This resource highlights how AI can be unlocked to benefit humanity and should be widely shared across industry forums to deepen our national conversation.”
Drawing from global perspectives, Malatsi noted, “The International Telecommunications Union views AI as a tool that will improve lives, while the United Nations AI Task Force believes it can enhance human rights.”
He stressed the importance of responsible deployment, saying that while AI holds the potential to elevate industries and improve lives, it must be implemented in a way that respects privacy and human rights.
Domestically, South Africa’s approach to AI is shaped by the Presidential Commission on the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which views AI as a critical tool for both social and economic progress.
Malatsi highlighted several national AI initiatives, including the AI Institute of South Africa and the Centre for Artificial Intelligence Research, both established in recent years to drive innovation. “These AI hubs at the University of Johannesburg and Tshwane University of Technology are much more than just centers of learning. They are engines of change, developing localized solutions that cater to the unique needs of our country,” he said.
Malatsi made it clear that AI is not a distant, futuristic concept, but a present reality that is already shaping industries such as automotive, healthcare, mining, and digital identity.
“AI is no longer a distant concept or a futuristic dream. It lives with us today, shaping our present life and defining the contours of our future,” Malatsi said.
The Minister further stressed that the growth of South Africa’s AI market will be powered by increased investments and adoption across sectors. He outlined the government’s strategy to ensure that AI initiatives are aligned with national priorities to foster economic transformation.
“For us, this is not merely about automating processes. It’s about elevating industries and empowering people with tools that prepare us for the future, even if that future holds uncertainties.”
Despite the tremendous potential of AI, Malatsi acknowledged that one of the biggest challenges to its success lies in government inefficiency and policy contradictions. However, he expressed optimism that his administration would prioritize clear and consistent policy direction in the ICT sector.
“One of the things that has created uncertainty in government is duplicity of policy and inefficiency in executing the best policies. But we are determined to ensure that in this sector, there’s always clarity about our policy direction and its objectives,” he emphasised.
Malatsi also spoke about the critical importance of digital inclusion, referencing initiatives such as the Digital Economy Master Plan and SA Connect, aimed at bridging the digital divide by expanding connectivity to underserved areas.
He stressed that digital inclusion is essential for leveraging AI’s full potential, saying, “To truly harness AI, we must remove barriers to entry for marginalized communities, ensuring that they not only have access to technology but also the skills to use it to transform their lives and uplift their dignity.”
In a nod to South Africa’s global role, Malatsi referenced the country’s upcoming presidency of the G20 and its commitment to promoting digital equality and sustainability.
“At the G20 in Brazil, we focused on key areas such as digital inclusion, universal and meaningful connectivity, and AI for inclusive and sustainable development. Globally, leaders are obsessed with finding the right balance between the ethical use of AI and the opportunities it presents,” he said.
Minister Malatsi concluded by acknowledging the pivotal role that South Africa’s tech leadership plays on the global stage.
“South Africa is not merely a participant in the global AI revolution. Many of you in this room are leading minds in AI, shaping global debates and solutions that are making everyday life better. From unlocking investments to creating jobs, AI is empowering people and uplifting the dignity of the most vulnerable members of society,” he remarked.
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He closed with a call to action, urging delegates to reflect on the possibilities created during the conference.
“What possibilities do we live with when we leave this gathering? Those possibilities, when we return to our respective places, have boundless solutions that can help make South Africa a better place for everyone,” Malatsi said.
The Minister extended heartfelt thanks to the organizers and sponsors of SATNAC, especially Telkom and the local organising committee, for creating a dynamic space for dialogue and innovation.
“It is clear to me that we will navigate this transformative path with purpose, unlocking opportunity for every South African as we shape a future that is both bright and inclusive,” he concluded
