At least 15,000 Small and Medium size businesses in Africa and Middle East will have to access latest technologies to help them grow.
Through a partnership with Microsoft and Orange Middle East and Africa, the two multinationals target to reach at least one million small businesses in 17 African countries.
Under the deal, Orange will leverage its wide distribution network to provide SMEs with easy access to Microsoft solutions such as Microsoft 365, Copilot, Azure, and Dynamics 365.
The firms will also facilitate the upskilling of Microsoft experts within each country.
“This collaboration with Microsoft is a significant step in our commitment to support the digital transformation of African businesses. By combining our network and Microsoft’s solutions, we can provide SMEs with the tools and guidance they need to thrive in the digital economy,” said Jérôme Hénique, Orange MEA Chief Executive Officer.
SMEs will also have access to training, marketing, and sales support programs to enable SMEs to adopt and benefit from Microsoft Modern Work solutions.
Additionally, the two firms will establish a joint steering committee to ensure the successful execution of the partnership, which will be monitored through key performance indicators.
“SMEs are the engine of economic growth in Africa. By collaborating with Orange, we can help them adopt digital technologies and unleash their full potential to create jobs, stimulate innovation, and contribute to the economic development of the continent,” added Lillian Barnard, Microsoft Africa President.
The collaboration aims to address the growing needs of SMEs as they undergo digital transformation, helping them to thrive in the digital economy.
