Global IT company IBM aims to tap into Africa's growth potential to grow its own business in the long-term.
The continent is on a growth trajectory, with economic gains expected to average 7% next year, despite the global recession that saw many economies lose ground.
Lillian Barnard, IBM's business partner organisation executive for sub-Saharan Africa, says IBM is actively pursuing opportunities on the continent. In the past 18 months, the company has opened offices in six countries.
Barnard explains that the offices - in Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, Ghana, Tanzania and Angola - are staffed and each has a country GM. “You can truly make an impact when you have people on the ground,” she says.
However, while IBM aims to open more offices on the continent, Barnard does not expect the company to open in every single country.
On the continent, IBM has about 120 contracted partners, and about 50 in SA, which is also seen as a growth area. “Partners are vital to our success... They become part of our extended team,” says Barnard.
The company has also developed a growth strategy for its partner channel, which includes imparting skills and working in tandem with partners to make sure they succeed, she explains.
IBM has also identified small and medium businesses as potential growth areas, as these companies are seen as the fastest growing, she notes.
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