The Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, has appointed CSIR Executive Cluster Manager for NextGen Enterprises and Institutions, Dr Jabu Mtsweni, to an independent expert review panel tasked with supporting the review of South Africa’s Draft National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy.
Effective 1 May 2026, the announcement by the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies forms part of the government’s efforts to strengthen the development of a national AI policy framework that responds to technological advancements while addressing South Africa’s socioeconomic priorities.
Jabu joins a panel of experts drawn from academia, research institutions and the policy sector, including Professor Vukosi Marivate from the University of Pretoria, Professor Alison Gillwald of Research ICT Africa, Heather Irvine, Dr Tshepo Feela and Advocate Lufuno Tshikalange.
The panel will provide independent expert input into the review of the Draft National AI Policy, with the aim of ensuring that South Africa develops an AI framework that promotes innovation, ethical governance, digital inclusion and sustainable economic growth.
According to Dr Mtsweni, the appointment highlights the contribution of the CSIR to evidence-based policymaking and national development.
“Securing a seat on this panel reflects the CSIR’s vital contribution to state capability and evidence-led policy development. I am honoured to serve as a CSIR ambassador in this initiative, directly assisting the government in overcoming challenges to finalise a landmark national AI policy,” he says.
Jabu is recognised for his leadership and work in digital transformation, cybersecurity, data governance and emerging technologies. His experience and participation will be instrumental in contributing practical research and public-sector innovation insights to the policy review process.
The appointment reinforces the CSIR’s role in supporting South Africa’s innovation ecosystem and advancing the responsible use of emerging technologies. As AI continues to influence sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, public administration and financial services, policymakers are seeking ways to maximise its benefits while addressing concerns related to privacy, bias, accountability and equitable access.
Government has indicated that the review process will help shape a national AI policy that supports economic development, technological innovation and digital empowerment, while ensuring that AI systems are developed and used responsibly.
Jabu’s appointment is viewed as an important step in ensuring that local expertise contributes to shaping South Africa’s AI future and aligning policy development with the country’s developmental needs.
Published 10 June 2026