AI’S POWER HUNGER, SOVEREIGN AI & SAND SCARCITY — LESSONS FROM SOUTH AFRICA (WITH TOM EATON)

In this episode of Elephants in the Boardroom, Graeme Codrington and Dean Van Leeuwen explore three “grey elephants” shaping the global landscape: the growing energy appetite of artificial intelligence, the strategic rise of sovereign AI, and a surprisingly overlooked resource, sand.

From AI data centres consuming power comparable to small nations to the race for national control over compute and data, this conversation examines how technology, energy, and resource scarcity are redefining competitiveness.

Later, Graeme speaks with acclaimed South African writer and columnist Tom Eaton to unpack three decades of lessons from South Africa’s experience with corruption, state capture, and institutional repair. The discussion offers insights that resonate for every country facing systemic fragility and reform.

Highlights:
🔹 How AI is reshaping global energy systems – risk or resilience?
🔹 Why sovereign AI is emerging as the next major geopolitical frontier
🔹 The growing crisis of sand scarcity in construction, semiconductors, and glass
🔹 Lessons from South Africa on rebuilding trust and institutions after systemic collapse

Key Takeaways for Business Leaders:

Align energy and digital strategies to drive efficiency and competitiveness.

Prepare for regulatory and supply chain challenges linked to material scarcity.

Recognize that systemic change can happen rapidly, both for better and worse.

Featured Guest:
Tom Eaton – South African author, screenwriter, and columnist known for his sharp commentary on politics, culture, and institutional resilience.

Connect & Learn More:
🌐 Explore the 7 Grey Elephants: www.tomorrowtodayglobal.com/greyelephants

📧 Contact: [email protected]

🔗 Connect with Graeme Codrington

📧 Email Dean Van Leeuwen: [email protected]

Elephants in the Boardroom is powered by Achilles, helping global businesses build ethical, sustainable, and transparent supply chains.

Resources Mentioned:
Jeff Bezos: Are Data Centres in Space the Next AI Frontier?
World Economic Forum: Can Data Centres Take the Heat?
Tom Eaton – “South Africa: the world’s cheat sheet for what comes next”