US cybersecurity company Malwarebytes has announced a partnership with Johannesburg-based technology distributor Prodata to tap into what it describes as a US$100 million market.

This is the first Southern Africa partnership for Malwarebytes, which specialises in the prevention and remediation of malware, and will enable the company to leverage Prodata's Sub-Saharan enterprise technology channel partner network.

Founded by Ernst and Young entrepreneur of the year Marcin Kleczynski, Malwarebytes was originally designed as a consumer product to combat today's complex cyber threats.

The company is focused on protection against cyber threats, including cybercriminals who exploit zero-day vulnerabilities to launch targeted attacks.

In a statement Malwarebytes says the Sub-Saharan Africa region has been identified as one of the fastest growing cyber security markets in the world, with revenues in the sector expected to hit US$100 million this year as internet penetration rates skyrocket.

The partnership between Malwarebytes and Prodata will aim to address growing demand for robust security products in the region, the statement reads.

Anthony O'Mara, vice president, EMEA at Malwarebytes, said: "The threat of cyber criminality has never been greater across the world and Africa is no different. As African businesses become increasingly connected, protection against this risk must increase. By partnering with Prodata and utilising their excellent local sales and marketing expertise, we are confident we can reach an increasing number of companies across the region."

Jay Bradley, managing director, Prodata added: "We are constantly looking to deliver the most effective and innovative technology solutions to our network of reseller partners and to enterprises across Africa and have a proven track record of delivery. Malwarebytes has an excellent reputation in the advanced malware protection market and we are looking forward to building a successful partnership with them."