Microsoft to Invest in South Africa’s Cloud and AI Infrastructure
Software giant Microsoft has committed 5.4 billion rand to build its cloud and artificial intelligence capabilities in South Africa by the close of 2027. The investments will address growing demand for the tech company's Azure services in the region. Microsoft is strengthening its cloud and AI capabilities to ensure that businesses can continue to access the best in class digital solutions.
As part of this investment, the company will also fund the technical certification tests for 50,000 people. These certifications will be on high demand skills such as cloud architecture, AI, and cybersecurity.
By providing these opportunities, Microsoft seeks to provide professionals with the necessary skills that the market requires. This opportunity or program will assist in creating a strong talent pool to cater to the growing digital economy in South Africa, and even beyond.
South Africa's Role as a Hub for Data Centres
Microsoft has already divulged 20.4 billion rand to establish South Africa's first enterprise grade data centres. The data centres will be established in Johannesburg and Cape Town. These data centres are crucial for handling the increasing demands. As companies integrate AI into their products and services, computational demands driven by AI are skyrocketing.
South Africa has become a primary location for data centres in Africa. It is supporting businesses in the region with the essential cloud infrastructure.
Microsoft’s Global AI and Cloud Investment Plans
Looking globally, Microsoft is working to expand its AI and cloud capabilities. The firm will invest approximately $80 billion in fiscal year 2025 to construct new data centres. The worldwide investment will assist Microsoft in training AI models and rolling out cloud-based applications, enhancing its cloud platform and AI infrastructure globally.
