Microsoft is set to invest R5.4 billion in South Africa by 2027 to expand its cloud and AI infrastructure, building on its previous R20.4 billion investment. The initiative aims to support startups, SMEs, and government entities, while also addressing skills gaps by training one million South Africans by 2026. Additionally, Microsoft is committed to environmental sustainability, with goals for carbon neutrality and water replenishment by 2030.
Microsoft has declared an investment of R5.4 billion by the end of 2027 to boost its cloud and AI operations in South Africa, responding to the heightened demand for Azure services. This new investment builds upon the R20.4 billion previously invested over the last three years, which established the country’s first enterprise-grade data centers in Johannesburg and Cape Town. The focus of this investment is on empowering startups, large corporations, SMEs, and government entities to leverage cloud and AI solutions for improved efficiency and innovation.
President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed optimism regarding Microsoft’s investment, remarking, “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.” He further stated that this announcement underscores the ongoing trust in South Africa’s economic environment.
Brad Smith, Microsoft’s vice chair and president, emphasized the company’s three-decade commitment to South Africa, highlighting the investment as part of a broader strategy to enhance prosperity through technology. He noted, “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.”
In addressing the skill shortages in digital sectors, Microsoft aims to provide training to one million South Africans by 2026. The initiative also includes funding for certification exams for 50,000 youths in crucial digital skills within the next year, covering areas such as AI, Data Science, Cybersecurity Analysis, and Cloud Solution Architecture. As of 2024, Microsoft has already trained over 150,000 individuals, leading to 95,000 certifications and 1,800 job placements through its Skills for Jobs initiative.
Additionally, Microsoft has donated over $100 million in software to educational institutions, nonprofits, public libraries, and museums in South Africa during the past year. The company is determined to position South Africa at the forefront of the continent’s AI technology landscape amidst calls for regulatory frameworks and infrastructure investments, as stated in a recent UN report.
Furthermore, Microsoft’s expanded AI infrastructure will adhere to its AI Access Principles, which prioritize public benefit access to AI technologies. The company remains committed to sustainability goals, which include achieving carbon negativity, water positivity, and zero waste by 2030. Recent accomplishments in this area include contracting 34GW of renewable energy and establishing 90 water replenishment initiatives worldwide.
In conclusion, Microsoft’s significant investment in South Africa underscores its enduring commitment to the region’s technological advancement and economic growth. By enhancing cloud capabilities and addressing critical skill shortages, Microsoft is poised to foster innovation and empower various sectors within the economy. The company’s sustainability initiatives further reflect its comprehensive approach to supporting South Africa’s digital future.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
