South Africa’s transition to an artificial intelligence-enabled economy must prioritise workers and ensure technological progress does not deepen existing inequalities, Electricity and Energy Minister Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has said.
Speaking on behalf of Deputy President Paul Mashatile at the National Economic Development Labour Council’s 31st annual summit in Pretoria, Ramokgopa called for a human-centred approach to AI development.
“If not properly managed, technological change can deepen existing inequalities, displace workers, widen the digital divide and exclude those who do not have access to the skills and infrastructure required to participate in the new economy,” he said according to a news release on Friday.
The minister acknowledged that AI and digital technologies are rapidly changing how economies operate, businesses produce goods and services, governments deliver services and people work.
“AI can improve productivity, support innovation, strengthen service delivery, create new industries and open new opportunities for entrepreneurship and employment,” Ramokgopa said.
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However, he noted that technological progress is not automatically inclusive and requires targeted investments in human capital.
“Some occupations will change, some tasks will become automated, new occupations will emerge, whilst existing occupations will require new skills,” he said.
The minister called for investments in education, skills development, reskilling and lifelong learning to equip young South Africans and current workers for shifting labour market dynamics.
“Workers must be protected as workplaces undergo technological transformation. Business will need to consider how technology can improve productivity whilst supporting workers through periods of transition,” he said.
Ramokgopa described the age of AI as an opportunity to improve South Africa’s productivity and competitiveness, but warned that increased productivity must translate into broader economic benefits.
“Technological advancements must support investment, strengthen enterprises – particularly small and emerging businesses – and contribute to sustainable employment creation,” he said.
The minister highlighted the importance of social dialogue platforms like the The National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) in addressing difficult economic and social challenges.
“Our response requires more than the efforts of government alone. It requires meaningful partnership between government, business, labour and communities,” Ramokgopa said.
He noted that South Africa faces simultaneous technological and environmental transitions that must be managed in a just and inclusive manner.
“Workers and communities whose livelihoods may be affected by economic restructuring must not be left behind. We must invest in skills, infrastructure and new economic opportunities whilst ensuring that the benefits of the transition are broadly shared and inclusive,” he said.
The minister called for strong partnerships between government, business, labour and communities to build consensus around difficult choices needed to place the economy on a more sustainable and inclusive growth path.
