This archive report was first published on 9 May 2020.
As the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, companies like Huawei are finding innovative ways to adapt and thrive. Published on May 9, 2020, Huawei has been at the forefront of this effort, utilizing its core competencies in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector to support its business partners on the African continent.
One of the key initiatives undertaken by Huawei is the implementation of video conferencing systems, enabling seamless communication between China and Africa. This has been particularly crucial for medical institutions, which have seen significant improvements in their communication efficiency thanks to remote videoconferencing systems.
Furthermore, Huawei has successfully implemented an AI-based diagnosis solution in several medical institutions, leading to faster CT scan reviews. In fact, these reviews can now be completed in just two minutes, an 80% improvement over previous times, which is critical for saving lives.
As the pandemic continues to shape the global economy, Huawei remains committed to using its ICT capabilities to support Africa's epidemic control efforts. The company envisions a post-COVID future where new business models will emerge, encompassing remote work, distance education, remote healthcare, online shopping, and mobile money.
For this vision to become a reality, Africa will need to undergo a significant digital transformation, driven by the mass connectivity of 4G and 5G technologies. This will involve the development of national data centers, optical fibre networks, and communication base stations.
Headquartered in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, Huawei Technologies is a Chinese multinational technology company that provides telecommunication equipment and sells consumer electronics, including smartphones. In 2019, the company's full-year revenue jumped 19% to $123 billion, just $12 billion short of its target of $135 billion.