President Cyril Ramaphosa has hailed Microsoft South Africa’s latest investment of R5.4 billion into expanding its Cloud and AI infrastructure, calling it a significant step in advancing the country’s digital transformation. The investment aims to meet the growing demand for Azure services in the SADC region and builds on Microsoft’s R20.4 billion investment over the past three years, which established South Africa’s first enterprise-grade datacentres in Johannesburg and Cape Town.

Speaking at Microsoft South Africa’s Investment Launch, President Ramaphosa commended the tech giant’s commitment to training one million South Africans in AI skills, machine learning, and cybersecurity by 2026. He emphasized that digital innovation is key to economic growth and job creation, particularly as South Africa develops its National AI Policy.

“The National AI Policy will position South Africa as a leader in AI innovation while ensuring we address its ethical, economic, and societal implications,” President Ramaphosa stated.

Microsoft’s investment comes at a pivotal moment, as South Africa hosts the G20 Presidency. AI for sustainable development is among the country’s key priorities during its G20 leadership, aligning with global trends in digital economy advancement and technology-driven economic inclusion.

Microsoft’s continued commitment to South Africa’s digital and economic transformation reinforces the country’s role as a regional hub for cloud computing, AI research, and cybersecurity innovation.