Speaking at the 18th Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, SA and the United Arab Emirates (BRICS) Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi on Sunday, Ramaphosa said AI had the potential to drive productivity, reduce inequality and support development, but warned that its growing capabilities required stronger human oversight.
Ramaphosa said developers of advanced AI systems had raised concerns about the potential use of the technology for advanced cyber operations, biological weapons development, autonomous actions, mass surveillance and disruption of employment.
Ramaphosa said the international community should neither fear AI nor approach the technology recklessly, arguing that human governance needed to advance at the same pace as AI capabilities.
SA’s proposal includes independent scientific assessments of AI systems, mandatory reporting of serious incidents and progressively stronger safeguards as AI capabilities increase.
Ramaphosa also called for investment in sovereign AI capacity in developing economies, saying countries in the Global South should have the ability to develop and govern AI technologies.
Ramaphosa said AI could contribute to advances in medicine, education, scientific research, agriculture and economic productivity if used effectively and responsibly.
Ramaphosa also placed climate resilience and inclusive economic growth among SA’s priorities for BRICS cooperation.
Ramaphosa called for disaster risk reduction to be integrated into macroeconomic policy, climate financing and sustainable infrastructure, while vulnerable countries should have equitable access to technology, finance and capacity to withstand climate-related shocks.
On the global energy transition, Ramaphosa called for investment in reskilling, protection of livelihoods and the development of industries capable of creating quality jobs.
Ramaphosa also urged BRICS countries to ensure greater transparency in critical mineral markets and responsible diversification of value chains, with mineral beneficiation taking place at source in Africa and other developing regions.
On economic cooperation, SA supports a gradual expansion of the New Development Bank, while backing discussions on the proposed New Investment Platform and BRICS Multilateral Guarantees initiative.
Ramaphosa further called for greater use of local currencies, stronger cross-border payment systems and deeper financial integration as BRICS enters its third decade.
Ramaphosa said engagement with BRICS Partner Countries should strengthen cooperation in public health, education, science and technology, finance and trade.
–ChannelAfrica–
