South Africa has moved to strengthen control over its digital future with the release of a draft national artificial intelligence policy that places infrastructure, data governance, and cloud computing at the centre of its strategy.
According to Reuters, the policy proposes the creation of new institutions, including a National AI Commission and a dedicated regulatory body to oversee the development and deployment of artificial intelligence systems. Beyond governance, the document signals a broader shift toward digital sovereignty. The government is seeking to reduce reliance on foreign-controlled technologies, warning that dependence on external providers could expose the country to geopolitical and security risks.
The draft policy explicitly highlights the need to “reduce dependence on hardware and software imported from dominant global players,” underscoring concerns about control over critical infrastructure. It also calls for expanded investment in data infrastructure, cloud computing, and high-performance computing systems, positioning these as essential foundations for both public services and private sector innovation.
Analysts say the move reflects a growing recognition that digital transformation is no longer just about adopting new technologies, but about owning and securing the systems that underpin them.
The policy places particular emphasis on cybersecurity and ethical governance, noting that increased adoption of AI and digital platforms must be accompanied by safeguards to protect citizens and institutions. This has direct implications for the development of digital public infrastructure, including e-government platforms, national identity systems, and digital payment ecosystems.
Industry players are expected to play a key role in supporting implementation. Companies such as Thales and Entrust provide encryption and identity technologies, while Visa supports secure digital transactions. Identity specialists such as IN Groupe are also relevant as governments expand national ID systems.
South Africa has opened the policy for public consultation until June, with implementation expected to follow in phases. If successful, the strategy could position the country as a leader in sovereign digital infrastructure on the continent.