Datatec in South Africa bets on AI infrastructure — Daily Maverick
In South Africa, technology group Datatec presents its global divisions as participants in growing demand for artificial intelligence infrastructure. The company operates in 50 countries and has 11,000 employees, Daily Maverick reports.
AI implementation
Datatec does not develop AI models or invest in its own data centres and graphics processing units. Instead, the group operates in another part of the technology chain related to implementing models in companies, government institutions and other organisations. According to the publication, this stage of AI use requires hybrid cloud solutions and devices for end users.
In a presentation for investors, Datatec said it is riding the “AI infrastructure wave.” Its Logicalis division handles the integration and management of technology solutions for global clients. It generates revenue from projects and seeks to increase the share of recurring income. Another division, Westcon, distributes hardware and software; its operations depend largely on equipment sales volumes and revenue from software products.
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Financial indicators
Datatec’s latest published results cover the financial year that ended in February 2026. During this period, the group’s revenue rose by 3.3%, adjusted EBITDA increased by 17.8%, and HEPS grew by 56.5%.
Daily Maverick attributes the EBITDA growth to a higher gross margin and a change in the service mix, while the significant increase in HEPS is linked to lower net finance costs. The next reporting period — the six months to August 2026 — has already ended, and investors are awaiting the publication of results at the end of October.
Share valuation
According to the publication, Datatec shares have risen by nearly 30% over the past year. At the same time, the price-to-earnings ratio stood at 11.4, while market capitalisation was 19 billion rand. The company’s founder and chief executive, Jens Montanana, owns nearly 20% of Datatec shares.
