How technology can be leveraged to drive up inclusion across Africa

In the first quarter of 2021, PC shipments reached 84 million worldwide in the January-March period, experiencing an 8% decline from the fourth quarter of 2020. HP Inc secured the second position with a market share of 22.9%. Bradley Pulford, the Managing Director and VP of HP in Africa, shed light on leveraging technology to enhance diversity and inclusion across the continent. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the demand for digital transformation, pushing companies, businesses, and consumers towards more remote and productive modes of operation. This surge in digital transformation has significantly impacted the African landscape, generating substantial demand for tech solutions. HP has responded effectively to this demand by ensuring access to platforms and devices, particularly in critical sectors like education. Despite a decline in PC unit sales, the issue is primarily attributed to supply chain challenges, limiting the availability of products in the market. Pulford emphasized the outstanding potential of the African region in embracing remote working and empowering learners with access to devices. HP has been instrumental in providing education-centric initiatives such as HP Life and HP Idea to enhance learning experiences and skills development. These initiatives offer free online courses in multiple languages to cater to diverse African communities. Pulford emphasized the importance of technology in fostering diversity and inclusion, citing HP's commitment to ensuring a diverse workforce with 42% women and 55% minorities. Embracing diversity fosters creativity and innovation, crucial for addressing the continent's evolving needs. With Africa comprising 54 countries, over 2000 languages, and a population of 1.3 billion, diversity is a cornerstone for driving growth and development across the region. HP's focus on empowering the continent's energetic youth, with 65% of the population under 25, highlights the commitment to nurturing Africa's potential for the future.