South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, accompanied by a high-level government delegation, arrived in California on Saturday, November 14, on a week-long working visit to Silicon Valley to explore artificial intelligence (AI) developments and opportunities to strengthen the country's digital economy.

The visit includes engagements with leading technology companies, investors and academic institutions, with discussions focusing on developments in frontier AI, robotics, data infrastructure, cloud computing, digital innovation and the practical application of AI across various sectors.

The president is accompanied to the US by multiple government ministers, representatives from academia, business, research institutions, technical experts and university students.

The delegation will also take part in the South Africa AI Opportunity gathering, held under the theme 'Building the African AI Economy: Infrastructure, Investment and Innovation.' The forum will bring together local and international stakeholders to explore ways of positioning South Africa as a competitive AI hub on the continent.

Key discussions will cover investment in data centres, computing capacity, energy infrastructure and start-ups, as well as AI applications in government, industry, law enforcement and public safety.

"AI presents significant opportunities to improve productivity, strengthen public service delivery, stimulate economic growth and support the creation of new industries and employment opportunities," the South African presidency said in a statement.

"In South Africa, its potential applications include health, education, criminal justice, public administration and public procurement," the statement added.

The presidency further noted that the engagements will help inform the country's approach to AI policy, regulation, skills development and responsible adoption, while addressing concerns around data protection, digital sovereignty and AI security.

The visit also aims to attract investment into South Africa's digital economy and showcase progress in economic reforms, including through Operation Vulindlela.