Find Computing and Office Supplies expertise in South Africa

South Africa has a more developed and stable computing industry compared with many other nations in Africa. According to data recorded in the 2011 census, 3 million out of a total of 14.5 million homes in South Africa own a PC; this represents almost 25% of the total population (United Nations Public Administration Network, 2012). The World Economic Global Competitiveness Report 2012-2013 states that 21% of the population of South Africa are internet users, rating the country 95^th out of the 144 countries included in the report. Broadband internet prevalence is fairly low when compared to more developed nations: just 1.8% of the population have broadband subscriptions, with a further 19.8% subscribing to mobile broadband (WEF, 2013).

South Africa is home to a number of local computer and office supplies distributors, manufacturers and consultants. Companies include Business Connexion Group (BCG), one of Africa’s leading ICT services providers, which has been operating in the South African market for over 30 years. BCG works across Africa, Dubai and the UK and employs over 7,000 people. Gijima is another key player in the South African computing industry; the company offers high end consultancy and ICT support solutions to businesses across South Africa. Local computing distribution companies include Software AG, a South African company specialising in the retail of a wide range of software programmes for individuals and business; and ComX Computers, another local company specialising in the sale of hardware packages, laptops and peripherals. Other computer and office supplies distributors are easily accessible in all business areas of the country.

Large multinational software and hardware companies are also present in the South African computing market. ICT giant Google is heavily involved in South Africa, having previously developed mobile applications that allow people in the country to access the internet via SMS services. In 2013 Google announced plans to develop a clean energy project in the Northern Cape Province, which will produce enough clean energy to power the equivalent of 30,000 South African homes. Other multinational corporations with headquarters in the country include IBM, Microsoft and Apple.

South Africa has a developing computing industry. The World Economic Forum Global Competitiveness Report 2012-2013 rated South Africa as 39 out of 144 countries for the availability of the latest technologies, giving the country a total score of 5.7 out of 7, with 7 being the most advanced. Firm level technology absorption has a slightly more impressive score of 38 out of 144 and 5.4 out of 7, with government procurement of advanced technological products having a much less notable score of 105 and 3.1. South Africa’s results for the Global Competitiveness Report are comparatively higher than many surrounding countries.