South Africa’s Cabinet has approved the publication of a draft national artificial intelligence policy for public comment, marking a step toward a formal framework for regulating and adopting the technology.

Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said the policy is intended to ensure that the benefits and risks of AI are shared fairly across society and across generations.

Speaking at a media briefing in Pretoria, Ntshavheni said the draft is designed to strengthen the government’s ability to regulate and use AI responsibly while also supporting local innovation, job creation, and broader access to AI skills.

“The policy is structured around six core pillars aimed at promoting the responsible development and ethical deployment of AI. These core pillars are capacity and talent development; AI for inclusive growth and job creation; responsible governance; ethical and inclusive AI; cultural preservation and international integration; and human-centered deployment,” said the minister.

The policy adopts a phased approach, reflecting the fact that AI adoption and risk levels vary across sectors.