Digital infrastructure and continuity solutions provider Vertiv has announced a distribution partnership with cyber security tech distributor Cyber Security South Africa.

While Africa expands its focus on fast tracking digital transformation and upscale cloud migration, Vertiv continues to expand its footprint in the region.

“The partnership will address the current datacentre challenges being faced in the country, by enabling availability through Vertiv’s premium infrastructure technologies and speed of delivery through CSSA’s developed distribution capabilities,” reads an excerpt from a statement released to the media.

According to the companies the timing of this partnership is particularly opportune given the increased demand for connectivity as the remote work model takes effect.

“Remote workforces have escalated demand for connectivity, and South Africa has not been exempt from this trend. This has placed pressure on datacentres and seen an increase of, and urgent need for, back-up power solutions due to extensive load shedding, rolling black-outs, and power-cuts across all South African borders. Telecom service providers have also reported a 40% jump in data usage, and with no signs of this upsurge subsiding, mechanisms have to be in place to safeguard against overloads with a focus on back-up power sources,” the companies explain.

Martin Britz, CEO of Cyber Security South Africa, says, “We are excited to add the Vertiv product range to our extensive offering, utilising our existing distribution footprint as well as engaging with new partners on our offering as an aggregator of products and services. We look forward to a successful relationship, not only between our two companies, but across our reseller network and customer base.”

Pierre Havenga, managing director of Vertiv in the Middle East and Africa region, adds: “When Vertiv seeks out channel partners, the backbone of our distribution strategy in Africa, we look for game changers who can help us continue to innovate and disrupt new markets with industry-leading infrastructure. What sets CSSA apart for us, is not just their extensive knowledge of the market, or their network of relationships and people, but ultimately their ability to leverage those networks and work with their channel partners to help meet customer demands fast.”

Vertiv said its Vertiv Incentive Program (VIP), which it describes as a cornerstone of its Partner Program, is being rolled out across Africa this year.

“Through the VIP, Vertiv partners are rewarded for buying Vertiv products, earning cash back when purchasing from the Vertiv channel portfolio. An enhanced program known as VIP+ has brought even more benefits to resellers through the silver, gold and platinum level of membership, including lower entry barriers, additional incentives upon registering and higher returns. These additions will enable even more partners to take advantage of the program while developing key skills and knowledge at their own pace,” the company states.