By Thapelo Molefe
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has warned that the rapid rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) could worsen inequality and job insecurity in South Africa if it is not properly regulated, urging organised labour to play a leading role in shaping safeguards for workers.
Speaking at the 2026 Annual NEDLAC Organised Labour School in Pretoria on Sunday, Mashatile said technological change is already transforming key sectors of the economy and reshaping the nature of work.
He pointed to the growing use of AI in operations at Transnet and maintenance systems at Eskom as examples of how automation is improving efficiency while also altering job roles.
“We must also confront the rise of Artificial Intelligence,” Mashatile said.
“While these innovations improve efficiency, they also reshape jobs and demand new skills.”
He warned that without intervention, the benefits of digital transformation could be concentrated among a small segment of society, leaving
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