Ramaphosa arrived in California in the United States (US) on November 14 with a delegation comprising representatives from government, business, academia, research institutions and universities.
The working visit includes engagements with leading technology companies, investors, researchers and artificial intelligence experts.
The delegation will examine developments in AI, robotics, cloud computing, data infrastructure and digital innovation.
The programme also includes engagements with academic institutions about the implications of AI for security, business, technology, the economy and employment.
The SA AI Opportunity gathering will be held under the theme “Building the African AI Economy: Infrastructure, Investment and Innovation”.
The Presidency said discussions would focus on the data centres, computing capacity, energy supplies and investment required to position SA as a competitive AI hub on the continent.
AI safety, cybersecurity, governance, skills development and the future of work will also form part of the engagements.
The Presidency said AI could improve productivity, strengthen public services, stimulate economic growth and create new industries and employment opportunities.
Potential domestic applications include healthcare, education, public administration, criminal justice and public procurement.
The visit will also allow SA to study the risks associated with AI and consider policies, regulations and skills programmes supporting responsible adoption.
The Presidency said knowledge exchanges with institutions at the forefront of AI development could help strengthen domestic research and technological capabilities.
The programme will promote SA as an investment destination and highlight economic reforms implemented through Operation Vulindlela.
The country will also present investment opportunities in the digital economy, research institutions and innovation ecosystem.
The Presidency said the government wanted to harness AI while safeguarding digital sovereignty, policy autonomy and personal data.
Responsible governance would be required to ensure that technological advances supported inclusive economic growth and development.
Ramaphosa is accompanied by Ministers responsible for Finance, International Relations, Science and Technology, Trade and Industry, Communications, Electricity, Small Business Development and the Presidency.
SA’s Ambassador to the US is also participating in the visit, which comes amid strained diplomatic and trade relations between Pretoria and Washington.
–Sherwin Bryce-Pease/ChannelAfrica–
Image: Reuters
