Microsoft Announces New Partnership in Africa

— -- Microsoft has formed a partnership with the government of Angola and plans closer collaboration with the European Union to accelerate Africa's social and economic development, company CEO Steve Ballmer announced at the second annual African Information and Communication Technologies Best Practices Forum.

The partnership is aimed at providing secure and accessible ICT to the government and people of Angola, Ballmer said. The deal includes a commercial enterprise agreement, as well as a commitment to implement technology access, e-government, skills development, digital inclusion and digital literacy programs, he said.

"The government is clear that ICT, when implemented in ways that are locally relevant, can help enhance the service we deliver to the people of Angola," said Pedro Teta, vice minister of Science and Technology for Angola.

"It can improve communication, ensure transparency and reduce costs. It can also support social and economic development, stimulate our private sector and help our local industries to be even more competitive. Considering the current growth rate of our economy and our desire to embrace technology in its many different forms, partnerships like the one signed today with Microsoft are significant," he said.

Ballmer said the partners will combine their respective expertise in development and technology to develop projects across Africa.