Google has appointed Kabelo Makwane as its new Country Director for South Africa, effective 6 January 2025. Makwane brings over 20 years of experience in the tech industry, positioning him well to lead Google’s efforts in the region. He is expected to spearhead initiatives aimed at enhancing personal and economic growth through digital innovation and AI.
A Seasoned Leader with Global Experience
Makwane’s impressive career spans multiple global tech giants. He is currently the Managing Executive for Cloud, Hosting, and Security at Vodacom Business. Before joining Vodacom, he held several leadership roles at Accenture, where he was the Managing Director for the Africa Global Unit and Cloud and Technology Consulting.
His tech journey also includes eight years at Microsoft, where he served as Country Managing Director for Nigeria and Public Sector Director in South Africa. Additionally, Makwane spent five years at Cisco as Regional Manager for Public Sector in South Africa, further solidifying his reputation as a key figure in the industry.
Vision for Google’s Role in Africa
Makwane expressed excitement about his new role, highlighting Google’s focus on AI and its potential to drive transformative growth across Africa. “Google is an impactful, AI-first company whose innovative products and services continue to accelerate personal and economic development in Africa. I’m excited to join the team in South Africa and to help more people and businesses get more out of AI, the internet, and technology in general,” he said.
Alex Okosi, Managing Director of Google Africa, also welcomed Makwane, emphasizing the significance of his appointment during a pivotal time for digital transformation on the continent. “With digital transformation accelerating across the continent, we are poised to leverage the power of AI to deliver innovative solutions that enable our users, partners, and advertisers to thrive in this dynamic era. We’re thrilled to have Kabelo join our leadership team,” Okosi remarked.
A Strong Academic Background
Makwane’s educational qualifications complement his extensive professional experience. He holds an MBA from Wits Business School and a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), equipping him with the strategic and operational skills necessary to drive Google’s growth in South Africa.
Conclusion
Kabelo Makwane’s appointment as Google’s Country Director signals a commitment to fostering innovation and technological advancement in South Africa. As Google continues to expand its footprint across the continent, Makwane’s leadership will be instrumental in shaping the company’s future in the region.
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