Microsoft Names Vukani Mngxati as New CEO of Microsoft South Africa

Microsoft has appointed Vukani Mngxati as the new Chief Executive Officer of Microsoft South Africa, effective October 1, 2025. The leadership transition signals Microsoft’s intent to accelerate cloud expansion, AI adoption, and digital skills development in the country.

As CEO, Mngxati will oversee Microsoft’s operations across South Africa, with a mandate to scale cloud infrastructure, foster AI skills, and build strategic partnerships aligned with the country’s national development priorities.

His appointment comes shortly after Microsoft committed R5.4 billion toward new AI-optimized data centers designed to support compute-intensive workloads such as large-scale machine learning and generative AI.

“Stepping into this role in Microsoft South Africa is a deeply meaningful and proud moment for me,” said Mngxati. “By harnessing the strength of our partner ecosystem and global best practices, we’re enabling real, sustainable impact.”

Mngxati brings more than 25 years of experience in enterprise modernization and innovation. He previously served as CEO and Board Chairman of Accenture Africa, where he led large-scale transformation projects across industries. His background also includes entrepreneurial ventures, giving him a unique perspective on both corporate and startup ecosystems.

Microsoft highlighted his inclusive growth and digital skills focus as key assets for South Africa’s next phase of digital transformation. To date, Microsoft has invested over R20 billion in local 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 moves into a new role as Chief of Enterprise Partners for Microsoft Middle East and Africa. In her expanded position, Barnard will focus on accelerating growth through strategic enterprise partnerships across the region.

Naim Yazbeck, President of Microsoft Middle East and Africa, expressed strong confidence in the leadership change:

“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 Mngxati’s leadership, Microsoft South Africa is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of AI innovation, cloud infrastructure, and inclusive digital growth. The company has emphasized its long-term commitment to supporting both public and private sector transformation while ensuring that technology benefits reach all communities.