According to Odaily Planet Daily, Microsoft South Africa (SA) has signed a $70.5 million artificial intelligence (AI) investment agreement with the South African Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) to support the development of local SMME enterprises in technology and non-technology fields over the next 10 years. This move will enable approximately 200 SMME enterprises and more than 2,000 individuals to acquire advanced artificial intelligence (AI) knowledge and other capabilities to prepare for their future work. This move is promoted by the equity equivalent investment program provisions of the B-BBEE Act, allowing Microsoft to accumulate BEE points. The investment commitment aims to stimulate the development of SMEs, create local opportunities, and prepare for South Africa's artificial intelligence transformation.