Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Solly Malatsi stated that stronger artificial intelligence authentication measures will be introduced following the withdrawal of the department’s draft AI policy.
The decision comes after reports revealed that the document contained fabricated academic references, raising concerns about the use of unverified AI-generated content in official policy work.
Malatsi said the incident highlights the risks of over-reliance on artificial intelligence and the need for stricter safeguards.
“This incident just showcases over-reliance on AI. We have to be extra vigilant in how we adopt its use. Also, start putting in place artificial intelligence authentication measures so that we close the potential risk going forward,” he said.
He added that consequence management processes will be implemented, while efforts are underway to restore the integrity of the policy framework.
The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) has welcomed the withdrawal, but raised concerns about internal processes within the department.
COSATU spokesperson Matthew Parks said the issue points to a broader challenge as AI use becomes more widespread.
“But it does raise an alarming issue that as AI grows, institutions, especially learning institutions, need to put in place mechanisms to prevent abuses, to ensure the integrity of documents, because there can be real consequences to South Africans if this thing is not dealt with,” Parks said.
The incident has sparked wider debate about the responsible use of AI in governance and the need for robust verification systems to maintain credibility and public trust.
VOC News
Photo: @SollyMalatsi/X
