Cape Town positioned itself at the centre of Africa’s digital transformation conversation this week as industry leaders, policymakers and technology experts gathered at the V&A Waterfront for the inaugural Africa Automation Indaba focused on automation, Artificial Intelligence and the continent’s industrial future.
The two-day event, opened by the City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Corporate Services, Alderman Theresa Uys, brought together prominent voices including Professor Thuli Madonsela, technology analyst Arthur Goldstuck and Astrofica Technologies CEO Jessie Ndaba. Discussions explored how AI and automation can support Africa’s economic growth, modernise industries and improve governance while addressing concerns around inequality, ethics and sustainability.
Uys said Cape Town is investing in a long-term digital transformation programme aimed at modernising municipal systems, improving efficiency and strengthening service delivery. She emphasised that automation should be used to reduce administrative barriers and improve access to services rather than replace human interaction.
Speakers throughout the indaba highlighted the importance of responsible leadership and inclusive policymaking as African countries accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies. Madonsela stressed that technology-driven development must remain people-centred and responsive to issues such as poverty and inequality. Goldstuck noted that AI tools are becoming increasingly accessible and could play a significant role in improving transparency and identifying irregularities in public systems.
The event also attracted exhibitors and sponsors from the automation, industrial networking and Industrial IoT sectors, reflecting growing interest in Africa’s Industry 4.0 potential. Organisers and delegates agreed that collaboration between government, academia and industry will be essential as African cities and businesses navigate an increasingly digital future.
