Tianjin: The South African government has appointed technology leader and digital transformation advocate Lady Mari©me Jamme as the country's Special Envoy for Technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI). The announcement was made during a recent AMC Davos 2026 gathering by the Office of the Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga.
According to South African Government News Agency, the appointment reflects South Africa's commitment to empowering women, youth, and persons with disabilities to participate fully in the digital economy and help shape the future of ethical, inclusive, and human-centered artificial intelligence. The department stated that this decision aligns with its mandate to advance socio-economic empowerment, inclusion, and rights of marginalized groups, supporting the vision of a digitally inclusive society driven by technological innovation.
The announcement comes amidst intensified global engagement on artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and the future of work by governments, business leaders, and multilateral organizations. In her role, Jamme will serve as South Africa's global representative and adviser on technology diplomacy, responsible AI governance, and digital inclusion. Her responsibilities will involve supporting South Africa's engagements with various stakeholders, focusing on technology diplomacy, workforce readiness, innovation ecosystems, and forming strategic partnerships to advance national development priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The department emphasized the importance of ensuring Africa's expertise and priorities are included in shaping international AI policy and innovation. It stressed that artificial intelligence must serve humanity and reflect the voices and aspirations of Africa, women, young people, and historically excluded communities.
Chikunga commented that Jamme's appointment underscores the government's commitment to positioning women, youth, and persons with disabilities at the forefront of the digital economy. "Her extensive experience in digital transformation, innovation, and skills development will help us build strategic partnerships that advance our national priorities," she said.
Jamme highlighted the potential of AI to redefine global power and productivity but cautioned that technology without ethics and inclusion risks increasing inequality. She expressed gratitude to the South African Government and Minister Chikunga for their trust, stating that the appointment is an opportunity to strengthen Africa's role in global AI governance and ensure innovation fosters opportunity and prosperity for underserved communities.
Lady Mari©me Jamme is an internationally recognized technology leader, known for her work as the Founder and CEO of iamtheCODE, a movement operating in nearly 90 countries to equip women and girls with essential digital skills.