Microsoft has officially named Vukani Mngxati as the new Chief Executive Officer of Microsoft South Africa, effective 1 October 2025, marking a strategic leadership transition aimed at accelerating the country’s digital transformation and AI adoption.
In his new role, Mngxati will oversee Microsoft’s operations across South Africa, with a clear mandate to expand cloud infrastructure, cultivate AI skills, and forge strategic partnerships that align with South Africa’s national development priorities. His appointment comes at a time when Microsoft is deepening its investment in the region, including a recent commitment of R5.4 billion toward new AI-optimized data centers designed to support compute-intensive workloads such as large-scale machine learning.
Vukani Mngxati stated in his remarks:
Stepping into this role in Microsoft South Africa is a deeply meaningful and proud moment for me.
I’m excited to continue the legacy and help businesses – public and private, large and small – unlock their full potential through cloud and AI technologies. By harnessing the strength of our partner ecosystem and global best practices, we’re enabling real, sustainable impact.
A Proven Leader in Enterprise Innovation
Mngxati brings over 25 years of experience in enterprise modernization and strategic innovation. He previously held several senior leadership roles at Accenture, including serving as CEO and Board Chairman for Accenture Africa. Earlier in his career, he also pursued entrepreneurial ventures, giving him a well-rounded perspective on both corporate and startup ecosystems.
His leadership style is rooted in driving inclusive growth, advancing digital skills, and enabling transformation across sectors. Microsoft has emphasized that Mngxati’s appointment reflects its long-term commitment to South Africa, where it has already invested over R20 billion in cloud infrastructure and pledged to train 50,000 individuals in digital and AI skills through certification programs.
Transition from Lillian Barnard
Mngxati succeeds Lillian Barnard, who previously led Microsoft South Africa and has now transitioned into a broader regional role as Chief of Enterprise Partners for Microsoft Middle East and Africa. In her new position, Barnard will focus on accelerating growth through enterprise partnerships across the region.
Naim Yazbeck, President of Microsoft Middle East and Africa, expressed strong confidence in Mngxati’s leadership:
Vukani’s appointment reflects our deep investment in the country, and I am confident in his ability to lead Microsoft South Africa into its next era of innovation and growth.
Under his leadership, we will continue to partner with public and private sector customers, partners, and communities to unlock new opportunities, accelerate economic progress, and ensure that the benefits of technology are felt by all.
As Microsoft South Africa enters this new chapter, Mngxati’s leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of digital infrastructure, AI innovation, and inclusive economic development across the country.
