Microsoft launched the Windows PC Affordability in Africa Initiative, a program that aims to reduce the prevalence of Microsoft software piracy in Africa’s emerging markets.
To implement the Initiative, the organization is working with its major PC partners, Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, Intel, Lenovo, SMD Technologies and Mustek to improve the uptake and affordability of genuine software across the continent.
Providing consumers with an enhanced, authentic experience using genuine software, and in so doing, creating awareness around the topic at hand encompasses two key objectives of this initiative.
Africa’s emerging market potential is unparalleled and business development and the growth of existing SME’s remains a key focus across the continent. To tap into this potential growth, access to affordable genuine software and hardware is necessary if the digital divide is to be closed.
“As per our estimates, only a third of PCs being shipped into Africa include genuine software. Because of this, data breaches and malware attacks have increased significantly, resulting in loss of important data and decreased productivity,” said Deniz Ozen, Regional General Manager, Consumer and Device Sales, Microsoft Middle East & Africa.
The crackdown, microsoft says will only be for the benefit of the user in terms of reduced malware attacks and loss of data.
‘’Through the Windows PC Affordability in Africa Initiative, we aim to educate consumers on the risks of using pirated software, and to work with our PC ecosystem partners to make Genuine Windows 10 PCs more affordable across Africa,” said Bradley Hopkinson, Vice President, Consumer & Device Sales, Microsoft.
