DA-led WC Government uses AI to ensure accountability
1 November 2022
The Western Cape Provincial Treasury has established its own data centre which is focused on using new technology, including machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI), to improve accountability in supply chain management (SCM). This was revealed during the tabling of the Provincial Treasury’s Annual Report for 2021/22.
The world is evolving every day with the advent of new technologies, and it is of the utmost importance that government keep pace, rather than be left behind.
During the Standing Committee, I asked the Department for further details on the technology. It was revealed that this technology is used by Provincial Treasury to produce self-service reports that can be used to monitor and improve its SCM processes. An AI is being used to produce the following reporting and oversight tools:
Automated in-year monitoring and related management dashboards;
Staff cost forecasting tools;
Asset management dashboards;
Automated conflict of interest tools and reports;
Municipal vulnerability dashboards; and
A supplier evidence bank to enable the ease of doing business with the WCG.
The Provincial Treasury is taking every effort to ensure that government is smart, cost-conscious, and responsible with residents’ money. The use of cutting-edge technology to achieve this goal is just another example of DA governments being innovative and using every available tool to ensure efficient fiscal management.
A 9th consecutive clean audit for the Provincial Treasury is further proof that the DA is at the forefront of good governance and serves as an example to their counterparts at the Provincial and National Treasuries. This is alongside the new and innovative measures used to ensure that more money is available to deliver critical services.
Issued by Cayla Murray, DA Western Cape Spokesperson on Finance, Economic Opportunities and Tourism, 1 November 2022
