Azure AD DS is a Microsoft security solution designed to manage organizational identities on Azure cloud services. It allows businesses to seamlessly migrate legacy applications from physical servers to Azure without the need for deploying and managing domain controllers. With an impressive yearly revenue of USD 40 million and a customer base of 300,000 enterprises globally, Azure AD DS holds significant importance for Microsoft.

In a strategic move, Microsoft has transferred ownership of Azure AD DS to the Microsoft Africa Development Center (ADC) in Nairobi, demonstrating its confidence in the center’s talent pool. Catherine Muraga, Managing Director of Microsoft ADC, highlighted this transition as an opportunity to foster product ownership and nurture expertise within the center. The increased investment in ADC reflects Microsoft’s belief in the existing talent and its commitment to showcasing the center’s growth and impact.

During Igor Sakhnov’s visit, Microsoft’s Executive Vice President of Engineering, he reviewed the operations and partnerships of ADC, focusing on building tech talent capacity. ADC’s collaborative efforts with Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology in curriculum development and skills training for university lecturers exemplify their dedication to enhancing the tech talent pipeline.

Microsoft’s expanded investment in ADC and the transfer of Azure AD DS ownership present remarkable opportunities for African tech talent to hone their skills and contribute to technological advancements on the continent. This move also underscores the potential of the African market for technology companies, potentially attracting further investments and partnerships.