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South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said Thursday that use of artificial intelligence (AI) for sustainable development was among priorities under South Africa’s G20 presidency.

South Africa is “particularly excited” about the launch of the National AI Skilling Initiative to train public servants in AI, Ramaphosa said in his address to the Microsoft South Africa Investment Annoucement.

He said South Africa was finalizing a cybersecurity bill to secure online government services and protect citizens' digital transactions.

South Africa is also developing a “National AI Policy that seeks to position South Africa as a leader in AI innovation” while addressing AI's broader effects, according to the president.

Praising Microsoft’s investments in his country, he said, “Microsoft’s plans to train 1 million South Africans in AI skills, machine learning and cybersecurity by 2026 is immensely encouraging.”

Microsoft’s presence in South Africa since 1992 is “a vote of confidence” in his country and South African economy, he added.

Ramaphosa highlighted AI’s “transformative potential” and the need for skilled talent as well as AI’s role in creating jobs.

Expressing a commitment to ensuring that new technologies catalyze Africa’s growth, industrialization and progress, he said: “We have high expectations that our G20 presidency will result in tangible outcomes, both expanding the global digital economy and levelling the AI playing field for the benefit of all.”