Johannesburg – Gauteng has warmly welcomed Microsoft’s investment of R5.4 billion in AI infrastructure within South Africa.
This new funding complements the R20.4 billion that the company allocated in 2023 for establishing the nation’s first enterprise-grade data centres in Johannesburg and Cape Town.
During the investment announcement made on March 7, 2025, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi emphasized the critical need for skills development to equip the workforce for future challenges, particularly in aligning educational initiatives with economic goals and tackling skill shortages in areas such as construction, engineering, and entrepreneurship.
“This investment will aid us in developing a skilled workforce and unlocking new avenues for innovation and economic growth, giving us a competitive advantage on the global stage,” stated Premier Lesufi.
The initiative will enhance Microsoft’s AI skilling efforts in South Africa by covering the certification exam fees for 50,000 young individuals pursuing high-demand digital skills over the next year.
President Cyril Ramaphosa, who attended the event, noted that this investment reflects “our country and our economy.”
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President Ramaphosa remarked: “The strategic investment announcements made by Microsoft today further affirm this ongoing confidence.
“They signal to the business investment community that South Africa’s economy has significant potential and continues to be an attractive environment for business, ensuring the security of their investments.”
