Semiconductors power the modern world. They’re not only in every single device that we use on a daily basis, they’re a key part of data centers, factories, cars, household appliances, gaming consoles and aircraft. But now, there are simply not enough to go around. As the demand for electronic devices grows, the global chip shortage continues to impact a number of industries and what Africa is now experiencing is less product, significant price hikes and a slower supply chain as big brands prioritize high profits over stocking up the emerging world.
“Because of the chip shortage, logistics has really become a real challenge for us. The North African markets are really suffering when it comes to stock allocations. Distributors would rather service bigger markets where logistics are easier,” says Johannes Groenewald, the head of Demand Factory at the Tarsus Technology Group, an IT reseller with offices throughout southern Africa. Another issue is that 70% of the technology reseller market in Africa is made up of government spend but when the pandemic hit, IT investments were cancelled in order to focus on Covid-19 programs.
“Botswana was our biggest market by quite a margin but for the past two years, they’ve invested nothing in IT purchases,” adds Groenewald. “This puts the market back a couple of years because in Botswana, for example, students get subsidies to buy hardware for their studies. Because the budget has been reallocated, the technology becomes outdated and there is now no availability to supply that market.”
Bu hikaye Forbes Africa dergisinin April - May 2022 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Giriş Yap
Bu hikaye Forbes Africa dergisinin April - May 2022 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Giriş Yap
HIP-HOP'S HOTTEST HUSTLER
The Memphis rap star runs one of the biggest music labels, owns a piece of an MLS team and is looking to expand his empire like his billionaire mentor Jay-Z. But first, he's going to business school.
Kigali Triennial, The Ambitious New Event On The African Cultural Calendar
Rwanda has rightly earned the nickname of \"a land of a thousand hills and a thousand and one opportunities\" because of the country's impressive economic progress. However, after the recently-concluded celebration of arts which was the inaugural Kigali Triennial festival, you can now add culture to the list of things the country offers for tourists and investors.
The dark Side of AI
There is a thin line between innovation and abuse. A look at how large language models (LLMs) are making cyber-criminals even better at mastering the art of deception.
Gene Gamechanger
Disease-resistant crops? Cows that can withstand climate change? Here's how CRISPR is already transforming the continent, and why building a network of skilled scientists can help position Africa as a key global contributor in this frontier of crop development.
Women Empowerment And Transformation In Mining: A Distinctive Perspective
GMDC is a mining company that specializes in tungsten (wolfram) and operates in the city of Kigali, Nyarugenge District, Mageragere Sector.
How The Mining Sector Contributes To Community Development Initiatives
It plays a significant role in Rwanda's overall development, contributing to infrastructure, job creation, health, education, and even environmental conservation. It's not just about extracting resources; mining is mandated to build up the communities and nation alongside its operations.
Reflecting On 2023 Milestones And A Look Ahead
Last year solidified Rwanda's position as a prime African mining investment destination and a burgeoning hub for mineral value addition. What will 2024 hold?
Rwandan Mining Regulator Unveils Three-Year Mineral Exploration Campaign
A holistic approach to responsible mineral resource management in the country.
TASTING SUCCESS
Paul Siguqa has had an unlikely journey in the wine business in South Africa. His mother worked in the vineyards as a laborer during the apartheid era and now, his fully black-owned wine farm sells premium products.
Creating Stronger Communities In Africa Through Digital And Financial Inclusion
In Sub-Saharan Africa, a silent barrier to economic inclusion and social mobility persists: one in four adults lacks identification, according to a World Bank report.