Canon MD says Africa holds future to business growth

In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Somesh Adukia, Managing Director of Canon for North & Central Africa, discussed the impact of smartphone photography on the camera industry and the emerging opportunities in the African market. Contrary to expectations, the rise of smartphones has not led to a decline in sales for camera manufacturers like Canon. Instead, it has opened up new avenues in the photography sector, especially in regions like Africa where the unique beauty of the continent continues to attract tourists and storytellers alike. Adukia highlighted the growing importance of tourism in Africa, with the sector contributing significantly to the continent's GDP. The interview also shed light on Canon's strategic approach to leveraging these opportunities and expanding its presence across multiple African markets. Adukia emphasized the role of Canon in supporting African photographers and storytellers by providing them with innovative products and services that enhance their work quality and efficiency. He cited the example of Kenya, home to the renowned Masai Mara wildlife reserve, where Canon collaborated with a tourist camp to establish Africa's first experience center. This initiative not only promotes the beauty of Africa but also showcases Canon's commitment to the local photography community. When discussing revenue perspectives and market growth, Adukia acknowledged the diverse challenges faced by African economies, including currency depreciation and inflation rates. In response to these challenges, Canon Central and North Africa adopted a regional approach, focusing on a cluster of markets rather than individual countries. While countries like Nigeria present significant opportunities due to their large population, Canon also prioritizes markets such as Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Kenya, Cameroon, Senegal, Ivory Coast, and Congo. Since its establishment in 2016, Canon Central and North Africa has expanded its presence with six local offices in key African countries, fueling growth and fostering partnerships across the continent. Looking ahead, Adukia expressed Canon's ambition to further penetrate the African market by engaging with a wider range of countries and communities. By diversifying its focus and aligning with the evolving landscape of African economies, Canon aims to solidify its position as a leading provider of imaging solutions in the region.