As automation, artificial intelligence and digitalisation reshape Africa’s industrial landscape, the question is no longer whether technology will transform industry, but how that transformation will unfold. In this edition of The Road to the Indaba, the spotlight turns to professor Thuli Madonsela, one of Africa’s most respected voices on ethics, leadership and social justice, and a keynote speaker at the Africa Automation Indaba 2026.
Thuli Madonsela.
Madonsela is internationally recognised for her role as South Africa’s former public protector and her lifelong commitment to ethical leadership, constitutional democracy, and inclusive development. Now chair of Social Justice at Stellenbosch University, her work focuses on ensuring that progress, whether political, economic or technological, does not come at the expense of human dignity or social cohesion. Her presence at the Indaba brings a vital dimension to conversations often dominated by technical capability and commercial outcomes.
At the Africa Automation Indaba 2026, Madonsela will deliver a keynote titled ‘An Ethical Technological Transition – Responsible Innovation and Ethical Leadership in Africa’s Industrial Transformation’. Her address will challenge industry leaders, policymakers, and technologists to consider how automation can be deployed responsibly, ensuring productivity gains do not deepen inequality, exclude vulnerable communities or undermine trust in institutions. In an era where automation decisions increasingly shape employment, skills and economic access, her perspective offers critical guidance for ethical industrialisation.
Madonsela’s contribution ensures that the Indaba’s dialogue on automation remains balanced, principled and future-focused. By framing technology as a tool that must serve society, not override it, she elevates the conversation beyond efficiency and competitiveness. Her message resonates strongly with Africa’s automation and process control community, reminding stakeholders that sustainable industrial growth depends as much on ethical leadership as it does on innovation.
As The Road to the Indaba continues, Madonsela’s voice stands as a powerful reminder that Africa’s automation journey must be shaped not only by what technology can do, but by what it should do.
Seats are limited – secure your place at Africa Automation Indaba 2026
Africa Automation Indaba brings together senior industry leaders, policymakers, investors and technology innovators shaping the future of automation across the continent. With a highly curated programme and limited capacity, delegate seats are strictly limited.
At R6500 excl. VAT, your registration gives you access to two days of executive-level insights, strategic networking and future-focused industry dialogue in a premium environment. Demand is already strong and seats are allocated on a first-come basis. Once capacity is reached, registrations will close.
Don’t delay, secure your place now and be part of the conversation shaping Africa’s industrial future.
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