By Marcus Moloko
Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi has withdrawn the Draft National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy after it was revealed that the document contained fictitious references, raising serious questions about oversight in South Africa’s digital policy environment.
The draft policy, which was approved by Cabinet on 25 March 2026 and published in the Government Gazette on 10 April 2026 for public comment, was intended to guide the country’s approach to artificial intelligence.
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Members of the public had until 10 June 2026 to submit feedback. However, the process has now been halted following confirmation that the reference list included fabricated sources.
“This failure is not a mere technical issue but has compromised the integrity and credibility of the draft policy. As such, I am withdrawing the Draft National Artificial Intelligence Policy,” Malatsi said.
The Minister explained that internal investigations revealed the most plausible explanation was the inclusion of AI‑generated citations without proper verification. He said this lapse undermined the importance of human oversight in the use of artificial intelligence.
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“South Africans deserve better. The Department of Communications and Digital Technologies did not deliver on the standard that is acceptable for an institution entrusted with the role to lead South Africa’s digital policy environment. This unacceptable lapse proves why vigilant human oversight over the use of artificial intelligence is critical. It’s a lesson we take with humility,” Malatsi said.
The draft policy had sought to extend South Africa’s initial AI framework by embedding principles of intergenerational equity, ensuring that innovation benefits both current and future generations. It also aimed to establish national priorities and sector-specific strategies across manufacturing, energy, infrastructure, transport, and trade.
Earlier this month, Deputy President Paul Mashatile highlighted the importance of the policy during the launch of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) lab and a Centre of Specialisation in Mpumalanga for artisan training. He said government was developing a comprehensive response to AI, positioning it as a tool to drive economic growth and competitiveness.
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Malatsi has confirmed that consequence management would follow for those responsible for drafting and quality assurance.
Malatsi concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to digital transformation, but acknowledged that the credibility of future policies must be safeguarded through stronger verification measures.
