Microsoft deepens commitment to South Africa’s public sector digital transformation at GovTech 2025

As lead sponsor of GovTech 2025, Microsoft highlights its role in advancing responsible AI, cloud adoption, and digital skills to strengthen government efficiency, citizen services, and digital inclusion in South Africa.

Microsoft South Africa has reinforced its dedication to advancing digital transformation and artificial intelligence in the country’s public sector through its role as lead sponsor at GovTech 2025. With more than 30 years of operations in South Africa, the company brings deep local expertise and a proven record of supporting government institutions with secure, compliant, and citizen-focused digital solutions.

“Our sponsorship and active participation at GovTech 2025 reflect our long-standing commitment to South Africa’s digital government agenda,” said Lerato Mathabatha, Public Sector Director at Microsoft South Africa. “This is about more than technology, we are working hand in hand with government to build a more efficient, responsive, and citizen-centric public sector, powered by AI and cloud solutions that are applied responsibly and ethically.”

Microsoft’s investments in local data centers provide secure and resilient digital infrastructure for sensitive government workloads, ensuring compliance with data sovereignty requirements. At the same time, its responsible AI framework underpins ethical adoption, offering strong governance structures designed to protect public trust while maximizing societal benefit.

Practical examples of this transformation are already visible. The South African Revenue Service (SARS), for instance, has enhanced its tax filing processes using AI and machine learning, streamlining compliance and improving the experience for millions of taxpayers.

Beyond infrastructure, Microsoft continues to invest in building South Africa’s digital capacity. Through a partnership with the National School of Government, thousands of civil servants are being trained in responsible AI and digital policy design using Microsoft’s AI Fluency curriculum, delivered via the National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa’s online platform. This long-term program includes practical applications such as Microsoft Copilot, enabling public servants to apply AI tools to improve service delivery and productivity.

The company is also extending its focus to Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), equipping them with AI-driven technology skills through the Microsoft Power Platform. This initiative empowers local businesses to design low-code, data- and AI-powered solutions that not only drive efficiency and innovation but also contribute to the modernization of government services.

“By democratizing access to AI and digital skills for SMMEs, we are fostering a more inclusive and innovative business ecosystem,” added Mathabatha. “These businesses play a vital role in government’s digital transformation by creating homegrown solutions that enhance decision-making, unlock efficiencies, and deliver real cost savings.”