• Home
  • Blog
  • Community
  • Knowledge
  • Cover Stories
  • Startup Stories
  • Playbooks
  • Podcasts
  • Português
    • Events Homepage & Booking
    • Start-Up Night Africa Series
    • Lioness Lean In Series
    • Lionesses of Africa Annual Conference
    • Harvard University / Lionesses of Africa Conference
    • Young Lioness Lean In Series
    • About Us
    • Impact Partners
    • Contributor Team
    • Contact
    • Join the Community
    • Signup for FREE Newsletters
    • Share Your Startup Story
    • Share Your Lioness Launch
    • Share Your Lioness Co-Lab
    • Become a Contributor
    • Nominate to '100 Lionessess'
    • Become an Impact Partner
    • Contact LoA
Menu

Lionesses of Africa

276 5th Avenue
New York, NY, 10001
(212) 634-4540
The Pride of Africa's Women Entrepreneurs

the pride of Africa's women entrepreneurs

Lionesses of Africa

  • Home
  • Blog
  • Community
  • Knowledge
  • Cover Stories
  • Startup Stories
  • Playbooks
  • Podcasts
  • Português
  • Events +
    • Events Homepage & Booking
    • Start-Up Night Africa Series
    • Lioness Lean In Series
    • Lionesses of Africa Annual Conference
    • Harvard University / Lionesses of Africa Conference
    • Young Lioness Lean In Series
  • About +
    • About Us
    • Impact Partners
    • Contributor Team
    • Contact
  • Connect +
    • Join the Community
    • Signup for FREE Newsletters
    • Share Your Startup Story
    • Share Your Lioness Launch
    • Share Your Lioness Co-Lab
    • Become a Contributor
    • Nominate to '100 Lionessess'
    • Become an Impact Partner
    • Contact LoA

AI – Enhancement or Unprecedented Legal Risk?

June 16, 2024 Melanie Hawken

by Nicolene Schoeman-Louw

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising various sectors globally, from enhancing business efficiencies to providing innovative solutions in healthcare, education, and beyond. AI is everywhere, even in applications you may not know about. Therefore, with its rise comes a set of legal implications that must be carefully navigated.  

The Legal Landscape

One of the primary legal concerns with AI is data protection. AI systems rely heavily on data, often processing vast amounts of personal information. In South Africa, the Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013 (“POPIA”) governs data privacy. Companies utilising AI must ensure compliance with POPIA by securing explicit consent from individuals before processing their data, implementing robust security measures, and allowing individuals the right to access and correct their data.

AI can create original works such as music, art, and inventions. However, determining the ownership of such creations poses legal challenges. At present, there is ongoing debate on whether AI-generated works should be eligible for copyright, patents, or trademarks, and if so, how ownership should be assigned.

AI systems can make autonomous decisions, raising questions about liability when things go wrong. For example, if an AI-driven vehicle causes an accident, determining who is responsible can be complex, and our legal system lacks specific provisions addressing AI liability. Thus, it is crucial for businesses to establish clear guidelines and contracts outlining responsibility and accountability for AI systems.

The most frightening of these is that artificial intelligence (AI) can be used for malicious activities, including cybercrimes, which have serious legal consequences. There's also the issue of deep fakes and misinformation, where AI-generated content blurs the line between real and fake, necessitating caution and verification

Effective governance and regulation are essential for responsible AI deployment. This includes setting standards for data use, ensuring transparency, and addressing the societal impact of AI technologies.

Regardless of the planning and foresight required to deploy AI effectively, we cannot deny its ability to process and analyse data at unprecedented speeds, leading to improved efficiency and productivity across various industries. For businesses in South Africa, AI can automate routine tasks, reduce operational costs, and enhance decision-making processes, ultimately driving economic growth. It may also already be in many of the software products businesses use – without even knowing it.

Conclusion

Businesses and policymakers must collaborate to navigate the legal landscape, ensuring that AI is deployed responsibly and ethically. By proactively addressing these legal implications, South Africa can harness AI's full potential to drive innovation and economic growth while safeguarding the rights and interests of its citizens. For legal advice on integrating AI into your business operations or understanding the regulatory requirements, please get in touch with our experienced team at SchoemanLaw Inc.

Nicolene Schoeman-Louw | SchoemanLaw Inc  

Specialist Technology, Commercial and Contract Law

https://schoemanlaw.co.za/our-services/commercial-law/ 

https://schoemanlaw.co.za/our-services/contract-drafting/  

https://schoemanlaw.co.za/our-services/technology-law-smart-contracts-and-cyber-law/  


Nicolene Schoeman-Louw  founded SchoemanLaw Inc in 2007 in South Africa aged 24, and is now the Managing Director of the firm. She is an admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa, Conveyancer, Notary Public and Mediator; with a passion for entrepreneurs and helping them reach their most ambitious goals. She obtained her LLB degree cum laude and successfully completed her LLM degree (dissertation) in commercial law and B-BBEE, both at the University of the Free State. In addition, she obtained her postgraduate diploma in financial planning (CFP) at the University of Stellenbosch. She regularly contributes to various publications and shares her knowledge regularly on various radio stations. Nicolene has enjoyed the confidence of many successful entrepreneurs over the years and continues to do so. As a trusted advisor she has actively contributed to the successes of many businesses, helped and continues to help many entrepreneurs build lasting legacies.

www.schoemanlaw.co.za

More articles by Nicolene

Featured
Understanding Crowdfunding
Oct 12, 2024
Understanding Crowdfunding
Oct 12, 2024
Oct 12, 2024
Tips for South Africans Navigating Cross-Border Transactions
Sep 15, 2024
Tips for South Africans Navigating Cross-Border Transactions
Sep 15, 2024
Sep 15, 2024
Understanding Email Compromise and Scams: Prevention and Response
Aug 31, 2024
Understanding Email Compromise and Scams: Prevention and Response
Aug 31, 2024
Aug 31, 2024
AI – Enhancement or Unprecedented Legal Risk?
Jun 16, 2024
AI – Enhancement or Unprecedented Legal Risk?
Jun 16, 2024
Jun 16, 2024
Integrating Legal Strategy into Your Business: More Than Just Crisis Management
Jun 2, 2024
Integrating Legal Strategy into Your Business: More Than Just Crisis Management
Jun 2, 2024
Jun 2, 2024
Legally Navigating the Creator Economy with Confidence
May 4, 2024
Legally Navigating the Creator Economy with Confidence
May 4, 2024
May 4, 2024
The Age of Technology and the Rise of Workplace Misconduct – How Should You Protect Your Business?
Apr 5, 2024
The Age of Technology and the Rise of Workplace Misconduct – How Should You Protect Your Business?
Apr 5, 2024
Apr 5, 2024
Arm's Length under the National Credit Act
Mar 9, 2024
Arm's Length under the National Credit Act
Mar 9, 2024
Mar 9, 2024
Understanding the Alter Ego of a Trust
Mar 2, 2024
Understanding the Alter Ego of a Trust
Mar 2, 2024
Mar 2, 2024
Navigating Legal Compliance: The Power of a Project Plan
Feb 18, 2024
Navigating Legal Compliance: The Power of a Project Plan
Feb 18, 2024
Feb 18, 2024
AI – a Lawyer’s Friend or Foe?
Feb 2, 2024
AI – a Lawyer’s Friend or Foe?
Feb 2, 2024
Feb 2, 2024
The Legal Landscape of Influencer Marketing in South Africa
Oct 21, 2023
The Legal Landscape of Influencer Marketing in South Africa
Oct 21, 2023
Oct 21, 2023
In Guest Blog Tags Nicolene Schoeman–Louw, Legal, AI
← How Women-Owned Businesses Can Collaborate as Opposed to CompetingLionesses in Profile / Meet the 10 women entrepreneurs showcased at Start-Up Night Africa, The Hague 2024 →

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS


LATEST PODCAST

LIONESSES OF AFRICA · AI Series Ep. 2 : AI-Human Collaboration in the Workplace

Lioness Radio Show: AI Series Ep. 2 : AI-Human Collaboration in the Workplace - Tune in for an engaging conversation designed to equip you with the knowledge to embrace AI and unlock its possibilities for your business.


LIONESS WEEKENDER COVER STORIES

LIONESS WEEKENDER COVER STORY
Retang Phaahla, a pioneer for South Africa’s indigenous teas
Retang Phaahla, a pioneer for South Africa’s indigenous teas
Dr Margaret Kemigisha, a publishing entrepreneur passionate about childrens’ literacy
Dr Margaret Kemigisha, a publishing entrepreneur passionate about childrens’ literacy
Sydelle Willow Smith, a pioneer of solar-powered mobile cinema in Africa
Sydelle Willow Smith, a pioneer of solar-powered mobile cinema in Africa
Babette Kourelos, a passionate artisanal bread-baking business builder
Babette Kourelos, a passionate artisanal bread-baking business builder
Thandekile Moloko, an entrepreneur empowering her clients’ financial futures
Thandekile Moloko, an entrepreneur empowering her clients’ financial futures

IMAGE OF THE DAY. CELEBRATING WOMAN MADE IN AFRICA.

Image of the Day / Kwesh

Relaxed style…We love these stylish yet relaxed Kwanza pants and matching tops from Juliana Nasasira, the Ugandan fashion designer and founder of Kwesh. Juliana launched Kwesh in 2012, a fashion brand focused on creat
Image of the Day / Dvyn Treat Batamba’s

Premium Coffee Experience…We love a great cup of coffee in a morning at Lionesses of Africa, and so we are fans of Dvyn Treat Batamba’s great coffee brand in Mozambique, co-founded by Emilia
Image of the Day / Eloli

African luxury couture…For those who want to stand out from the crowd, Dibo Ndumbe Eyoh, co-founder and co-creative Director of Eloli, an award-winning luxury African fashion brand in Cameroon, has just what you need.
Image of the Day / Happy Coffee

Happy Coffee Experiences…If you are a fan of great coffee you will love Happy Coffee, founded by Princess Adeyinka Tekenah in Nigeria. She is a Coffee Entrepreneur and a Mom, and the founder of this growing ind
Image of the Day / Yococo

Vegan ice-cream heaven…If you are ice cream lovers like we are here at Lionesses of Africa, you will love the vegan ice cream from Yococo in South Africa, created by the talented Sinenhlanhla Ndlela. She is proving t
Image of the Day / The Joinery

Mini Box Tote…We have always been big fans of The Joinery, the sustainable and ethical product design brand based in South Africa founded by Natalie and Kim Ellis, and their exciting Future Tex™ fabric con
Image of the Day / Margaux Wong

Sustainable statement jewellery…We love the strong designs of the hugely talented Margaux Rusita, founder of Margaux Wong in Burundi. This international, multi-cultural jewellery and accessories brand was found
Image of the Day / Nokware Skincare

Sustainable skincare…We love to see natural cosmetics companies with a sustainable approach to business succeeding in Africa, and Nokware Skincare, founded by Tutuwa Ahwoi in Ghana is a great example. She f
Image of the Day / Marabou Essentials

African print accessories…We love the celebration of African printed cloth in these handmade fashion accessories created by South African brand Marabou Essentials, founded by Fentse Mokale. This passion-f
Image of the Day / Oryx Desert Salt

Sustainable salt and pepper…At Lionesses of Africa, we are passionate about supporting  sustainable brands, and a great example is Oryx Desert Salt, founded by Samantha Skyring in South Africa. This growing
Image of the Day / Kwesh

Relaxed style…We love these stylish yet relaxed Kwanza pants and matching tops from Juliana Nasasira, the Ugandan fashion designer and founder of Kwesh. Juliana launched Kwesh in 2012, a fashion brand focused on creat Image of the Day / Dvyn Treat Batamba’s

Premium Coffee Experience…We love a great cup of coffee in a morning at Lionesses of Africa, and so we are fans of Dvyn Treat Batamba’s great coffee brand in Mozambique, co-founded by Emilia Image of the Day / Eloli

African luxury couture…For those who want to stand out from the crowd, Dibo Ndumbe Eyoh, co-founder and co-creative Director of Eloli, an award-winning luxury African fashion brand in Cameroon, has just what you need. Image of the Day / Happy Coffee

Happy Coffee Experiences…If you are a fan of great coffee you will love Happy Coffee, founded by Princess Adeyinka Tekenah in Nigeria. She is a Coffee Entrepreneur and a Mom, and the founder of this growing ind Image of the Day / Yococo

Vegan ice-cream heaven…If you are ice cream lovers like we are here at Lionesses of Africa, you will love the vegan ice cream from Yococo in South Africa, created by the talented Sinenhlanhla Ndlela. She is proving t Image of the Day / The Joinery

Mini Box Tote…We have always been big fans of The Joinery, the sustainable and ethical product design brand based in South Africa founded by Natalie and Kim Ellis, and their exciting Future Tex™ fabric con Image of the Day / Margaux Wong

Sustainable statement jewellery…We love the strong designs of the hugely talented Margaux Rusita, founder of Margaux Wong in Burundi. This international, multi-cultural jewellery and accessories brand was found Image of the Day / Nokware Skincare

Sustainable skincare…We love to see natural cosmetics companies with a sustainable approach to business succeeding in Africa, and Nokware Skincare, founded by Tutuwa Ahwoi in Ghana is a great example. She f Image of the Day / Marabou Essentials

African print accessories…We love the celebration of African printed cloth in these handmade fashion accessories created by South African brand Marabou Essentials, founded by Fentse Mokale. This passion-f Image of the Day / Oryx Desert Salt

Sustainable salt and pepper…At Lionesses of Africa, we are passionate about supporting  sustainable brands, and a great example is Oryx Desert Salt, founded by Samantha Skyring in South Africa. This growing

STARTUP STORIES. MEET THE WOMEN WHO’VE LAUNCHED.

Featured
Gladys Kgorane, an entrepreneur creating special events and wellness retreats for those looking for rest and relaxation
Gladys Kgorane, an entrepreneur creating special events and wellness retreats for those looking for rest and relaxation
Drienie Botes, an entrepreneur empowering women to achieve economic independence through beekeeping
Drienie Botes, an entrepreneur empowering women to achieve economic independence through beekeeping
Tumelo Tshwagong, a South African agri-entrepreneur contributing to finding sustainable local solutions to addressing food insecurity
Tumelo Tshwagong, a South African agri-entrepreneur contributing to finding sustainable local solutions to addressing food insecurity
Gloria Sellwane Phala, a South African entrepreneur helping clients benefit from the transformative impact of yoga
Gloria Sellwane Phala, a South African entrepreneur helping clients benefit from the transformative impact of yoga
Nondumiso Leshaba, a South African business builder providing professional business advisory and accounting services to SMEs
Nondumiso Leshaba, a South African business builder providing professional business advisory and accounting services to SMEs

LIONESS DATA & INSIGHTS


LIONESS PLAYBOOKS



Screen Shot 2020-01-27 at 6.01.32 PM.png
Screen Shot 2020-01-27 at 5.34.58 PM.png

Sign up today to receive the #1-rated newsletters for Africa's women entrepreneurs.

* indicates required
Required: Please select your newsletter(s):


LIONESS BOOK REVIEWS

Featured
Women Entrepreneurs Rewired To Rise: Powerful Habits that Break Through Burnout, Silence Your Inner Critic, and Build a Thriving Business from the Inside Out  by Fiona Soutter
Women Entrepreneurs Rewired To Rise: Powerful Habits that Break Through Burnout, Silence Your Inner Critic, and Build a Thriving Business from the Inside Out by Fiona Soutter
Dream Big and Win: Translating Passion into Purpose and Creating a Billion-Dollar Business by Liz Elting
Dream Big and Win: Translating Passion into Purpose and Creating a Billion-Dollar Business by Liz Elting
After the Idea: What It Really Takes to Create and Scale a Startup by Julia Austin
After the Idea: What It Really Takes to Create and Scale a Startup by Julia Austin
Feminine Intelligence: How visionary leaders can reshape business for good by Elina Teboul
Feminine Intelligence: How visionary leaders can reshape business for good by Elina Teboul
Bridging the Confidence Gap: How Empowered Women Change the World by Sheena Yap Chan
Bridging the Confidence Gap: How Empowered Women Change the World by Sheena Yap Chan

About Us  |  Contact Us  | PRIVACY POLICY | terms OF SERVICE  | Community Guidelines  

© 2025 LIONESSES OF AFRICA public benefit corporation. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.