Microsoft plans to invest ZAR 5.4 billion (US$ 298 million) by 2027 to expand its cloud and AI infrastructure in South Africa. This investment aims to address the growing demand for Azure services and enhance operational efficiency across various sectors. Additionally, Microsoft intends to provide skills training in relevant technological areas, particularly for the youth. The announcement reflects Microsoft’s long-term commitment to the South African economy.
Microsoft has announced a significant investment of approximately ZAR 5.4 billion (around US$ 298 million) to enhance its cloud and Artificial Intelligence (AI) infrastructure in South Africa by the end of 2027. This new commitment comes on the heels of a prior investment of ZAR 20.4 billion (about US$ 1 billion) used to create the nation’s first enterprise-grade data centers located in Johannesburg and Cape Town over the last three years.
The primary purpose of this investment is to cater to the increasing demand for Azure services throughout the region, facilitating access to cloud and AI solutions for a broad spectrum of organizations, from startups to large multinational corporations and governmental bodies. This initiative seeks to improve operational efficiency, enhance productivity, optimize service delivery, and drive innovation within the South African economy.
Moreover, Microsoft has articulated its intention to offer skills development training focusing on cloud architecture, AI, and cybersecurity, bolstering the workforce’s proficiency in these critical areas.
During a recent conference in Johannesburg, Brad Smith, Vice Chair and President of Microsoft, stated, This latest investment is part of our broader focus in helping South Africans build a future where technology drives prosperity and young workers have the skills they need to thrive. At the same conference, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa noted, Beyond blazing a trail in the local technology space, the longstanding presence of Microsoft in South Africa is a vote of confidence in our country and in our economy.
With over 30 years of establishment in South Africa, Microsoft has garnered a diverse clientele spanning various industries, including financial services, healthcare, retail, agriculture, mining, and the public sector, all of whom utilize Microsoft’s cloud and AI technologies.
In summary, Microsoft is making a substantial investment in South Africa to expand its cloud and AI infrastructure, which is aimed at meeting rising demand for Azure services. This initiative is designed to empower organizations across different sectors with enhanced operational capabilities while also focusing on skills training for the local workforce. The endorsement from both Microsoft executives and South African leadership further highlights the potential for technological advancement within the country.
Original Source: w.media
