Due to the threat of protests from at least 40 000 activists during the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD), a number of businesses in Sandton are planning to relocate to rented premises with mirrored backup IT systems before the event kicks off. The companies are concerned that any possible mayhem could disrupt their business operations, causing unwanted - and expensive - downtime.
Douglas Reed, managing director of DataPro, a network integrator and first-tier ISP (Internet service provider), said the need for business continuity should be a day-to-day concern of corporate SA, adding that the upcoming summit, however, "creates a new level of concern for businesses in the area".
The South African government expects 65 000 visitors to SA, including 40 000 activists from environment, labour, youth and women`s groups. Radical activists have already stated that they will ignore police plans to crack down on their protests during the global environmental summit.
The businesses - which do not want to be named - are assuring that their day-to-day business activities will not be disrupted during the summit by relocating to Midrand, where backup systems have been installed.
DataPro recently announced the launch of a business continuity division following growing demands from an increasingly e-business driven economy.
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