First Distribution is proud to announce that it is now working with Amazon Web Services (AWS), joining a small number of AWS distributors globally taking cloud technologies to a partner channel, and the only distributor in Africa to do so. The services will be supplied through First for Cloud, a subsidiary of First Distribution and South Africa's original cloud services brokerage.

This will enable First Distribution's partners to not only sell IaaS, but the entire range of AWS powered technologies available including compute, storage, database, mobile, analytics, application, and deployment services which help organisations move faster, lower their IT costs and scale applications.

First for Cloud's system offers direct integration into AWS, allowing its business partners' customers to be able to configure and spin up a virtual server from the partners' very own branded webstores. What's more, business partners are enabled to maintain the billing relationship with their customers.

General Manager for Cloud and Hosted Solutions at First Distribution, Kevin Derman, stated that "We're excited to add AWS powered technologies to our portfolio of cloud solutions. The cloud marketspace is moving very fast and it is First Distribution's intention to keep our partners relevant in today's IT world. First Distribution has always brought premium solutions to the channel, and AWS is recognised by many as a leader in IaaS."

Leveraging South Africa's leading distributor's relationships with multiple world-class cloud providers, First for Cloud ensures that resellers have access to global and local cloud products and services.

First Distribution is investing heavily in ensuring it has the right team of product managers and certified technical resources to be able to take its resellers through a 'Recruit – Enable – Transact' cycle, allowing them to become part of one of the largest cloud ecosystems available today for African businesses.

Russell Warne has been appointed as the AWS Product Manager for First Distribution.
"AWS brings immense opportunity to the African partner channel. I encourage partners to connect with me to learn about how we can assist in building your AWS business" said Warne.