Gauteng govt praises Microsoft’s multi-billion rand investment in AI infrastructure

JOHANNESBURG - The Gauteng government has praised Microsoft’s multi-billion rand investment in Artificial Intelligence (AI) infrastructure.

Last week, the American tech giant announced plans to invest R5.4 billion between now and 2027 to meet South Africa’s increasing demand for AI services.

This new investment adds to the R20 billion Microsoft has already invested in the country over the past three years.

Through its multi-billion-rand investment, Microsoft plans to train over a million South Africans by the end of next year, equipping them with the skills to create AI solutions that tackle socio-economic challenges.

The company has also pledged to help job seekers enhance their technology skills and will employ over 50,000 people to improve AI proficiency.

In a statement, the Gauteng government has expressed that this skills development programme will prepare young South Africans for the future.

The province believes the investment will not only provide opportunities to compete globally but also stimulate economic growth.

This investment comes at a time when South Africa’s relationship with the White House is under strain, amid concerns about potential sanctions from the Trump administration.

There've also been worries that American investors might withdraw from South Africa.

However, the government said this investment shows that foreign investors still have confidence in South Africa’s potential.