Magda Wierzycka, widely regarded as South Africa’s richest self-made woman, says she would press a giant “delete button” on artificial intelligence if one existed.
Yet the founder and chief executive of Sygnia is preparing to launch a venture capital fund focused on South African AI startups, making a major bet on a technology she has repeatedly warned could have damaging consequences for society.
The apparent contradiction shows a growing reality confronting businesses and governments worldwide: AI may be controversial, but few believe its advance can be stopped.
Speaking on Moneyweb’s RSG Geldsake radio programme, Wierzycka maintained her concerns about artificial intelligence while arguing that South Africa cannot afford to sit on the sidelines as the technology reshapes economies around the world.
Instead, she believes the country must ensure that local entrepreneurs participate in building AI businesses rather than becoming consumers of products developed elsewhere.
