Microsoft has announced the appointment of Kabelo Makwane as the company’s new country manager for Nigeria. A seasoned technology professional and long- standing member of theMicrosoft family, South African born Makwane will lead the company’s global shift to a devices and services offering in one of the most dynamic, innovative and fast growing countries on the continent.
“I am extremely excited to be appointed to lead the Nigerian subsidiary during this dynamic time on the continent,” Makwane says. “Microsoft is focused on unlocking the economic opportunities of Africa and it’s a time when the company can have real economic impact in the country.
I believe technology is an enabler at every level of society and I am excited at being able to have an impact on this vibrant and unique country.”
With Gross Domestic Product growth rates sustained at over 6 percent, Nigeria has shown continual expansion, including diversification within the oil sector and considerable infrastructure investment in the Information & Communication Technology (ICT) sector.
Microsoft firmly embraces this tremendous economic and social progression, with Makwane at the helm.
“The renewed emphasis by the Nigerian government on the ICT sector holds considerable promise for what technology can bring to consumers and businesses,” Makwane says. “It gives us an opportunity to use our technology, talent, time and money to help create sustainable growth in the country and across the African continent.”
Microsoft has been operating in Nigeria for 13 years and currently has a local partner ecosystem of 1,750 members. In addition, through its partner ecosystem it has created 45 000 jobs, supported 300 startups, reached three million students through the Partners in Learning programme, and seen 65 000 downloads of free Dream Spark developer tools.
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