This archive report was first published on 15 December 2019.
Microsoft has launched the Windows PC Affordability in Africa Initiative to combat software piracy in the continent.
According to a 2018 report by the Software Alliance, software piracy prevalence across the Middle East and Africa was at 56 per cent, with several countries carrying some of the highest rates in the world.
Libya and Zimbabwe were among the countries with the highest rates of pirated Microsoft software usage, at 90 per cent and 89 per cent respectively.
"As per our estimates, only a third of PCs being shipped into Africa include genuine software," said Deniz Ozen, a regional sales executive at Microsoft.
"This has led to a significant increase in data breaches and malware attacks, resulting in loss of important data and decreased productivity," Ozen added.
Microsoft's initiative aims to provide consumers with an enhanced, authentic experience using genuine software and create awareness around the issue.
"It's easy to take devices for granted in the digital revolution. But without people, there is no revolution and without the right devices, they can't participate in it," said Dave Brooke, an executive at Dell Technologies.
"The Windows PC Affordability in Africa Initiative can help close the digital divide and put that power into the hands of those whose lives will be transformed the most," Brooke added.
Microsoft is working with partners including Acer, Asus, Dell, Intel, Lenovo, SMD Technologies, and Mustek to improve the affordability and uptake of genuine software.
