Bosch, Macrocomm sign deal to manufacture IoT devices in SA

South African-based Internet of Things (IoT) solutions provider Macrocomm and German engineering and tech firm Bosch have announced a partnership aimed at the development and manufacturing of IoT devices and sensors.

According to a statement, IoT devices that have been researched and developed by Macrocomm will be produced at Bosch’s manufacturing facility in the South African North-Western town Brits for local and export markets.

"This initiative will ensure that we leverage the economies of scale benefits as well as the world class manufacturing standards of Bosch to produce high quality IoT devices and sensors at cost-effective prices to address challenges in the local market," said Macrocomm Group CEO Sivi Moodley in a statement. "More importantly, this will also contribute to local 4IR skills development and innovation."

"IoT is changing how we live, work and get around, and this initiative is in line with our ‘invented for life’ ethos," added Bosch South Africa Electrical Drive regional president Frank du Plessis.

"We are constantly developing new ways of applying technologies that will make all aspects of life easier as homes, factories, businesses and mobility become smarter," he added.

South Africa’s Department of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Deputy Minister Buti Manamela endorsed and supported the partnership, citing that digitization is forcing everyone to make a sustainable investment in technology and innovation.

*Top image is of Macrocomm Group CEO Sivi Moodley, Department of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Deputy Minister Buti Manamela and Bosch South Africa Electrical Drive regional president Frank du Plessis (Source: Macrocomm).

— Matshepo Sehloho, Associate Editor, Connecting Africa