Microsoft introduces a special edition Microsoft office 2007 software package for Ghana, Kenya and Nigeria

A welcomed development has seen microsoft introduce a special edition of its popular software package for the Ghanaian, Nigerian and Kenyan public.

At the press briefing in Lagos recently to introduce the software into the Nigerian market, Mr. Adefolu Majekodunmi, Business & Marketing Organization Lead for Microsoft Nigeria said, "Microsoft understands the underlying issues of affordability and availability of software in Africa and continues to support programmes that increase access for the underserved. Microsoft Office Home & Student 2007 for Africa is just one of the ways in which Microsoft responds to the needs of our environment. The fact that the package is fully installable on up to three computers ensures that everyone who needs the essential software applications for work, study and play has access." Majekodunmi said that "the intention of the software company is to drive genuine usage of technology across the country and other African countries."

Also Microsoft and its distributors confirmed that the Office Home & Student for Africa is already available for sale in Nigeria and that its versions in local dialects such as in Yoruba, Hausa and Igbo is expected to be in the market starting from next year.

At N6,500 or $43, microsoft is hoping that it'll be able to persuade more users to stick to genuine software packages. i cant speak for the other countires but piracy has become a really big issue in the Nigerian market. We'll have to wait and see what happens now, but the introduction of this package certainly shows microsofts intent and it is an indication that they are trying to do something about it. The question is whether the public would buy the idea.

- Chiedu Ifeozo

Additional source - The Gaurdian