Microsoft, today, kicked off its Global AI Tour in Johannesburg, South Africa. The Global AI Tour is the Tech Giant’s initiative aimed to accelerate Africa’s economic growth and drive the African renaissance by leveraging the power of AI.” It’s a free, one-day event which will bring together business leaders, IT professionals, and developers to explore the latest advancements in Microsoft AI.
The kick-off at Johannesburg today saw Lillian Barnard, President of Microsoft Africa, reveal the company’s plan to equip four million African youths with future-ready skills in digital, cyber security, and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. According to Barnard, “the technology represents a new era for Africa, which has a significant youth population, with 60% under the age of 35.” She believes, “By providing skilling opportunities and access to industry recognised certifications, our youth will be well positioned to compete on the global stage.”
Equipping Africa’s Youth for the Future
To bridge the skills gap and empower future generations, Microsoft has introduced a free-to-learn AI Skills Navigator portal. This comprehensive platform guides users on their AI knowledge journey through assessments, helping individuals and organisations alike build the in-demand AI skillset.
Barnard further stressed the importance of collaboration between stakeholders. Working hand-in-hand with ICT training providers, governments, NGOs, and public and private sector entities is paramount to expanding the reach of this crucial AI skilling project.
AI: A Force for Progress in Africa
The Microsoft Global AI Tour in Johannesburg transcended a one-day event. It marked the dawn of a new era for Africa, brimming with possibilities. By prioritising skills development and fostering a culture of innovation, Microsoft is empowering Africa’s youth to become architects of their own destinies and active participants in shaping the continent’s future as a global AI powerhouse.
This aligns perfectly with the urgent need highlighted by the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, which underscores a critical skills gap. The report emphasises that this gap poses a significant obstacle to economic transformation by 2030, with over 60% of companies identifying it as a primary barrier. By equipping Africa’s youth with the necessary expertise, Microsoft is playing a pivotal role in bridging this gap and ensuring that the continent is well-positioned to capitalize on the boundless opportunities presented by the AI revolution.
This strategic focus will be instrumental in achieving Africa’s potential to become a dominant player on the global economic stage by 2030, leveraging AI to revolutionize industries and propel productivity to new heights. Through collaborative efforts and a commitment to harnessing the power of AI responsibly, Africa can solidify its position as the next global economic powerhouse.
Microsoft’s Global AI Tour presented a golden opportunity for Johannesburg’s AI enthusiasts to:
- Gain insights from leading AI experts
- Participate in hands-on workshops
- Network with fellow professionals
- Explore the future of AI and its transformative potential
Microsoft Africa says its AI Tour will also stop in Cairo, Egypt on February 12th, Lagos, Nigeria on February 19th, and Nairobi, Kenya on March 12th.
