A recent roundtable meeting held in Stellenbosch by the Policy Innovation Lab brought together experts from various fields to discuss the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools and governance to strengthen policymaking in South Africa.

Participants emphasized the importance of collaboration between government, industry, and academia to ensure that AI is developed and used responsibly. The meeting also highlighted the potential of AI to address social and economic challenges in South Africa, such as healthcare, education and unemployment.

Several case studies were presented, showcasing how AI can be used to strengthen the policymaking cycle. These examples ranged from environmental impact analysis to healthcare applications. The meeting also addressed the ethical implications of AI, including issues such as bias and job displacement. Participants stressed the need for transparency and accountability in AI development and deployment.

The roundtable concluded with a call to action for stakeholders to work together to create a thriving AI ecosystem in South Africa. This includes investing in research and development, building capacity and fostering public trust in AI.