Orange Middle East&Africa (OMEA) has partnered with Microsoft through the Africa Transformation Office to bring Microsoft solutions to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in 17 countries across Africa and the Middle East (MEA).
This collaboration aims to support SMEs as they navigate digital transformation and thrive in the digital economy. The partnership will focus on three main areas:
1. Driving access to key technology solutions: Orange’s distribution network in the MEA region will make it easier for SMEs to access Microsoft solutions like Microsoft 365, Copilot, Azure, and Dynamics 365. The partners will also work together to enhance the skills of Microsoft experts in each country.
2. Preparing SMEs for digital adoption: Orange and Microsoft will join forces on training, marketing, and sales support initiatives to help SMEs adopt and benefit from Microsoft Modern Work solutions.
3. Strong governance and performance monitoring: A joint steering committee will oversee the partnership’s successful execution, with performance monitored through key indicators.
Through this collaboration, Microsoft and Orange aim to assist 15,000 businesses by 2024, with a long-term goal of reaching 1 million SMEs. This initiative seeks to promote digital inclusion and ensure all economic players in the MEA region can leverage the benefits of digital transformation, including micro-businesses and the education sector.
Jérôme Hénique, CEO of Orange MEA, emphasized the significance of this partnership in supporting the digital transformation of African businesses. By combining Orange’s network with Microsoft’s solutions, SMEs will have the guidance and tools necessary to excel in the digital economy.
Microsoft views empowering SMEs as crucial for economic growth in Africa. Over the past three decades, the company has collaborated with strategic partners across the continent to bolster the growth of millions of African businesses.
Lillian Barnard, Microsoft Africa President, highlighted the pivotal role SMEs play in driving economic growth in Africa. Through the partnership with Orange, Microsoft aims to help SMEs adopt digital technologies and unleash their full potential, ultimately contributing to the continent’s economic development.
This collaborative effort between Microsoft and Orange signifies a strong commitment to promoting digital inclusion and empowering SMEs in the MEA region. By providing access to technology, tools, and support, the partnership aims to accelerate the adoption of digital solutions among SMEs, fostering economic growth and innovation.
