South Africa may miss out on the economic and social benefits of artificial intelligence (AI). The nation currently lags significantly behind in AI development and implementation, facing challenges in multiple areas. This distance – encompassing technological infrastructure, skills, and investment – raises concerns about its ability to capitalize on the potential "deus ex machina" offered by AI. The article highlights the critical need to address these disparities to ensure South Africa isn’t left behind as AI reshapes the global landscape. Without proactive measures, the economic and social gains from AI are likely to bypass the country, exacerbating existing inequalities. The long-term implications for South Africa’s future competitiveness are significant and demand immediate attention.