South Africa restarts AI policy after fabricated citations scandal

South Africa's communications minister Solly Malatsi says the replacement national AI policy will be finalised by Cabinet before the end of March 2027, with public consultation starting in April. The original draft was withdrawn in May after AI-generated fabricated academic references were found; one of two suspended officials has resigned.

• South Africa withdrew its draft AI policy over fabricated AI citations
• Two officials were suspended; one has resigned, the other faces proceedings
• Cabinet is expected to finalise the new AI policy by end of March 2027
• Public consultation is set to begin in April 2027