Allowing more South African small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) to use cloud computing might contribute US$10,1 billion to the country's economy by 2030.

According to recent research, SMMEs may create 142 000 employment, reduce carbon emissions by about 4,74 million metric tonnes, and reduce cyber security incidents by 34.2 percent.

Access Partnership was commissioned by Amazon Web Services (AWS) to conduct the study.

"The role of SMMEs is important for economic growth and the development of the South African economy," said Yunus Hoosen, Chief Executive Officer of Invest SA at the Department of Trade and Industry and Competition (DTIC).

He praised the study, especially the recommendations for the government.

Hoosen stated that the DTIC would continue to collaborate with other government departments and major players, such as AWS, to help small businesses and create jobs in the digital technology, innovation, and digital transformation.

Cloud usage will help SMMEs become more resilient to cyber assaults, says the study.

According to the analysis, by switching to the cloud, South African SMMEs might save approximately 88 800 security incidents between 2023 and 2030.

"As well as providing secure, affordable, and reliable IT infrastructure, cloud computing is democratising access to advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, thereby enabling South Africa's SMMEs to use them to grow their businesses," said Amrote Abdella, general manager AWS.