Tech giant Microsoft has announced a $298 million investment in artificial intelligence (AI) and data centre infrastructure in South Africa, expanding its footprint in the country.
The pledge was revealed by Microsoft’s vice chair, Brad Smith, at a conference in Johannesburg on Thursday.
The new investment builds on the company’s previous commitments, which have already seen $1 billion poured into South African data centres.
In addition to infrastructure, Microsoft will fund training for 50,000 people in AI, cloud architecture, and cybersecurity, reinforcing its goal of upskilling one million South Africans by 2026.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa welcomed the investment, calling it momentous and timely as the country prepares to host the Group of 20 (G20) summit in November.
He praised Microsoft as an American company with an African heart and stressed that AI must be developed inclusively to benefit all.
The announcement comes amid tensions between South Africa and the United States, with President Donald Trump recently freezing aid to the country over policy disputes.
Despite this, Microsoft’s commitment signals continued confidence in South Africa’s tech sector.
