Page 64 - IRMSA Risk Report 2023

The national government has characteristically be required in driving innovations and funding, and
responded with strong policy positions on these executing these ambitious goals.
issues. A ‘new-new’ presidential multi-pronged
energy plan to resolve the energy crisis by improving The prospects for a prosperous digital economy
current energy generation capacity, accelerating the in South Africa remain promising, despite all the
purchase of new generation capacity and investing in threats the country faces. Digital solutions will allow
renewable energy was put in place with international us to address key socio-economic challenges such
funding in the Just Energy Transition Partnership as health, employment, education and security.
(JETP). However, achieving these goals will require
developing a secure, resilient digital network. Such
A Cyber Crimes Act was proclaimed 1 December a network would be enabled by an agile policy
2021, aimed at empowering law enforcement framework investment in: digital infrastructure;
agencies in fighting cyber-crimes by codifying them innovative financing with private and citizenry
and setting punishment and penalties. A National partnerships to fund local digital solutions; and
Infrastructure Plan for 2050 (NIP 2050) was launched. development of advanced technology skills that will
It seeks to invest in digital infrastructure, achieving enable problem-solving for local challenges. Central
affordable broadband of 10Mbps to all citizens and must be a focus on digital inclusivity to mitigate
100Mbps to all government buildings by 2030. the risk of digital inequality raised by the World

While these are excellent steps in the right direction, Economic Forum and set as a strategic priority for
national government’s political will and ability to the government’s policy.
follow through and implement these policies is
what will yield the desired results. Perceptively and Our digital transformation, like the energy transition,
welcomingly, a common thread in the policies is the must leave no person behind.
critical role of private-public cooperation, which will

64 IRMSA RISK REPORT 2023/24