Stories from Pretoria · South Africa

South Africa's Minister for Communications and Digital Technologies has withdrawn a draft set of AI ethics guidelines after discovering they contained fabricated citations. Experts identified the non-existent references as digital hallucinations that appeared plausible and authentic. The responsible ministry is now revising the draft from the ground up. The minister stated, 'As government, we have to take responsibility.' A machine learning and artificial intelligence expert stated that the errors in the draft guidelines can likely be corrected quickly. The expert told news channel ENCA that the situation should be viewed as a learning opportunity rather than a reason to discard the entire initiative. The expert suggested the government should receive some recognition for the attempt. The ministry acknowledged a lack of robust oversight regarding the document.

An estimated four to five million undocumented African migrants are currently in South Africa, according to a report discussed on BBC WS backup. The lack of transparency is causing frustration among South Africans facing high unemployment, inequality, and crime.

A government-related artificial intelligence guideline in South Africa was found to contain fabricated sources and numerous errors. The document was reportedly created using AI but included invented citations. Correspondent Stefan Überbach reported that the case may have implications beyond South Africa. The incident is currently being viewed as a matter with potential consequences for the government. Minister Solly Malatzi has withdrawn the draft National Artificial Intelligence Policy. Kusele Diku, chairperson of Parliament's Communications and Digital Technologies Committee, stated that Malatzi will soon be summoned to Parliament to account for the withdrawal. Kusatu indicated they will continue to engage the government regarding the policy's future.

A South African court fined Bellamine Mugabe, the youngest son of former Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe. Mugabe pleaded guilty to pointing a firearm. The court also ordered his deportation from South Africa.

Communication and Digital Technologies Minister Soli Malazi said his department is investigating the withdrawal of the draft National Artificial Intelligence Policy. The error occurred while the government was attempting to develop policies for the responsible use of AI. Experts described the issue as digital hallucinations where plausible-sounding but non-existent quotes were included. The responsible ministry is currently revising the draft from the ground up. The failure to verify sources has reportedly compromised a document intended to be a political breakthrough for the nation. A spokesperson told the SABC that the situation should not have occurred. Two officials from the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies have been placed on precautionary suspension with immediate effect. The announcement was made by SABC news reporter Undi Lambana.

Rudi Heinecke, a senior project manager at the organization Undoing Tax Abuse, stated that leadership instability at the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is deeply troubling. Heinecke noted that the loss of two chairpersons in under two years raises serious governance concerns. This follows the announcement by Higher Education Minister Putti Manamela regarding a resignation from the NSFAS Board. The institution has lacked leadership stability for five years, having seen three different ministers and three different administrators in the last three to four years. The organization operated with an acting CEO during a period when the administration was lifted. This lack of stability affects a scheme responsible for funding nearly one million young people in tertiary studies. Alta was invited to discuss a recent student documentation report with the organization.

Parliament's portfolio committee on social development has requested Social Development Minister CCC D'Olaa Shea to appear before it. The request follows allegations of misconduct against the minister. Garabo Mohale of the committee made the request.

Dr. Mugwena Malulege has formally stepped down from his position as a board member and interim chairperson of the Higher Education and Training department. Malulege cited personal and academic commitments as the reason for his departure.

Two members of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) board have resigned. The Higher Education and Training Department stated that Minister Manamela has initiated formal engagements with the remaining board members. A spokesperson for Manamela confirmed that Dr. Maluleke has formally stepped down. This departure follows previous resignations that have significantly reduced the number of remaining voting members. The reduction in board members has raised concerns regarding the board's ability to fulfill its statutory and fiduciary responsibilities. Board member Karabo Mohale also resigned from the organization. The resignations follow reported organizational challenges flagged by Mohale. The resignations contribute to ongoing leadership instability at the agency. The board cited study commitments and personal circumstances as reasons for the departures.

Markudu Sifara, Chairperson of the South African National Editors' Forum (SANEF), has decided to step aside. The decision follows an investigation into allegations regarding the misappropriation of lottery funds.