In most of Africa, many people feel disappointed that the outside world always reports about war and famine in the continent and good things fail to reach the masses. However, the good thing is that the economy is developing and some of the major technology giants have started investing in the continent. The reason for such positive step from these companies is the growth rate of 5.6%, predicted for last year by the World Bank.
In Africa, the middle class is growing rapidly with disposable income, better access to internet, education and phones. This initiative by technology giants is to establish themselves before competitors also recognize the opportunity that is available. Let us now look at some of the technology giants such as IBM, Microsoft and SalesForce to see the reasons they are eager to invest in African continent.
IBM
IBM has strengthened present investment in Africa with inauguration of new research facility where exploratory as well as applied research will be done. The company has brought top talent from around the world to work in this center. Aim of the company is to deliver innovations, which will result in creation of practical commercial products, which can contribute to the development of the economy.
Microsoft
Similar to IBM, Microsoft has also started the 4Afrika initiative, which is trying to concentrate on promoting innovations, make technology more accessible and make the local workforce more skilled. The company promotes development projects involving infrastructure, healthcare and infrastructure. In addition to it, they have also created a hub, which promotes young developers working on app development for their Windows phone. Microsoft’s aim is to impart greater economic impact in the continent by making your people more skilled and improving access to technology for the common people. The company aims to make use of technology in greater economic development of the continent and build a strong customer base for itself.
Salesforce.com
To become part of the development of the continent, Salesforce has created a foundation that provides their software to non-profit organizations as well as provides internet facility to schools and sponsors students. The company also gives training on how Salesforce platform is used as well as does workshops to provide guidance to start up companies. Many social enterprises are benefiting by using the Salesforce software to improve their work efficiency.
