South Africans have until 10 June 2026 at 16:00 to submit comments on the country’s draft national Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy — a move that could shape how technology affects jobs, education, and public services for years to come.
The draft policy, published by the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, is now open for public input. Government says the document sets out how AI should be used responsibly while supporting economic growth and protecting people’s rights.
For readers in the Eastern Cape, this is not just a technical policy — it could influence access to digital services, education tools, and job opportunities in rural areas.
The policy recognises that communities without internet access, digital skills, or infrastructure risk being left behind as AI expands.
What you should do
If you want your voice included, here are the steps to follow:
1. Read the draft policy
- Available online via government platforms
- You can also request access through official channels
2. Prepare your comments
- Focus on issues that affect you: jobs, education, data privacy, or service delivery
- You can raise concerns or suggest improvements
3. Submit before the deadline
- Email: aipolicy@dcdt.gov.za
- Include the subject line: “Draft South Africa National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy”
4. Include your details
- Submissions must be written
- You may request that your input is not publicly disclosed
5. Send before 10 June 2026 (16:00)
- Late submissions may not be considered
Where to get help
- Community organisations or local NGOs may assist with drafting submissions
- Schools, colleges, or digital hubs can help access the document
- Email enquiries can be directed to the same government address
Why this matters locally
The draft policy highlights major gaps that affect rural provinces like the Eastern Cape:
- Limited internet access and infrastructure
- Low digital literacy in some communities
- Risk of widening inequality if AI benefits are not shared
Government warns that without a clear policy, South Africa could fall behind globally and deepen existing inequalities.
For towns like Bizana, Lusikisiki, and Flagstaff, the outcome of this policy could influence:
- Future job opportunities linked to technology
- Access to AI tools in schools
- Digital services in clinics and municipalities
What happens next
After the deadline, government will review all submissions before finalising the policy.
This has not been confirmed: how many public submissions are expected or how long the final approval process will take.
The policy is expected to be implemented in phases, starting with finalisation and initial regulations, followed by sector-specific strategies over the next few years.
The bottom line
This is one of the few chances for ordinary residents — including those in rural Eastern Cape — to influence how AI is used in South Africa.
Decisions made now could affect everything from job creation to digital access in underserved communities.
We will update this story as more details emerge or once public submissions close.
DON’T MISS IMPORTANT DEADLINES AND PAYMENTS
Get clear updates on SASSA, applications, funding and local opportunities — including how to fix common issues and avoid delays.
