South African top CFOs share their thoughts at CFO SA dinner

AI is reshaping finance and accounting by automating repetitive work, amplifying human judgement and creating opportunities for professionals to become more strategic advisers. Alfred Ramosedi, the president at CIMA and co-chair of AICPA, explores how the profession can harness AI while managing its risks and responsibilities.

South Africa’s public sector has much to gain from AI, but outdated policies, data security concerns, limited resources and fear of unintended consequences are making officials wary of embracing the technology.

Tightening AI policies can create the very risks they are designed to prevent, as employees turn to unapproved tools when approved options fall short. Dheren Singh argues that CFOs need fit-for-purpose AI, stronger controls and clear accountability rather than blanket restrictions.

Are the qualities often associated with women in leadership truly gendered, or simply human? Drawing on more than two decades of experience, this candid perspective explores the power of empathy, empowerment, cultural awareness and unexpected allies, and why women must learn to know their room, guard their energy and lead with their whole selves.

As Africa's ICT sector accelerates digital transformation, finance will play a pivotal role in ensuring that growth is matched by meaningful decarbonisation. Innovative funding models, strategic partnerships and renewable energy investments will be essential to unlocking a low-carbon future while expanding connectivity across the continent.

As artificial intelligence transforms manufacturing, the greatest competitive advantage will not come from technology itself, but from finance leaders who know how to harness it.