South African ministers call for coordinated AI plan to protect jobs

At the 31st National Economic Development and Labour Council (Nedlac) Annual Summit in Pretoria, South African officials called for a coordinated strategy to manage the impact of artificial intelligence on the workforce.

Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth emphasized the need for social dialogue to ensure a just transition, stating that collaboration between government, business, labour, and community is essential to realize AI’s potential without deepening inequality. She urged partners to commit to actionable strategies rather than just theoretical conversation.

Electricity and Energy Minister Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, delivering a keynote on behalf of Deputy President Paul Mashatile, noted that while AI can boost productivity and create new industries, technological progress is not inherently inclusive. He warned that without proper management, AI could displace workers, widen the digital divide, and exacerbate existing inequalities.