Cabinet approves draft AI policy for public comment

South Africa's Cabinet has approved the publication of a draft national AI policy for public comment. The policy is built around six pillars: capacity and talent development, inclusive growth and job creation, responsible governance, ethical and inclusive AI, cultural preservation and international integration, and human-centred deployment. It takes a 'middle of the road' regulatory approach, stopping short of the EU's stricter AI Act to avoid stifling innovation, while aiming to position South Africa as an African leader in responsible AI. The draft builds on a 2024 national AI policy framework and is expected to eventually form the basis for future AI regulations and potentially a dedicated AI Act.