Once public comments on South Africa’s draft Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy close on 10 June 2026, the process shifts from public input to government decision-making — with major steps planned over the next three years.
The Department of Communications and Digital Technologies will first review all submissions received from the public, businesses, and organisations. This feedback will be used to refine and finalise the national AI policy.
For readers in the Eastern Cape, this stage is critical — it determines whether issues like rural internet access, digital skills, and job opportunities are properly included in the final policy.
What happens next
Government has outlined a phased rollout plan:
Phase 1: Finalising the policy (2025/26)
- Review and incorporate public comments
- Publish the final National AI Policy
- Identify urgent risks and draft initial regulations
Phase 2: Building rules and systems (2026/27)
- Release official AI guidelines
- Start enforcing rules for high-risk AI uses
- Develop strategies for sectors like education, health, and agriculture
Phase 3: Full implementation (2027/28)
- Roll out remaining policy measures
- Adjust rules based on new AI developments
What this means for communities
This process will directly shape how AI is used in everyday life. The policy aims to:
- Improve public services using technology
- Support job creation and innovation
- Expand digital infrastructure and education
But the draft also warns that without proper implementation, existing inequalities — especially in rural areas — could get worse.
For Eastern Cape communities, the real impact will depend on:
- Whether infrastructure investment reaches rural towns
- How schools and training programmes include AI skills
- Whether local businesses and youth benefit from new opportunities
What is still unclear
This has not been confirmed:
- When the final policy will be officially published after June
- How long the review of public comments will take
- How public feedback will be prioritised
Why you should still pay attention
Even after submissions close, this policy remains important. Decisions made in the next phase will affect:
- Job opportunities linked to technology
- Access to digital services
- Education and skills development
Local impact is not yet clear, but rural provinces are specifically identified as at risk of being left behind without targeted support.
What to watch next
Expect updates on:
- Release of the final AI policy
- New regulations for businesses and government
- Pilot projects or AI programmes in key sectors
We will update this story as government announces the next steps or publishes the final policy.
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