Why Nadella chose Kenya for Windows 10 operating system global launch

Microsoft on Wednesday 29th July 2015 launched its highly anticipated Windows 10 operating system. Billed by the tech giant as “the best Windows ever”, the company aims to have one billion devices running on the software. It is built to run across laptops, desktops and smartphones.

Chief executive Satya Nadella came to Kenya a day ahead of the global launch. NTV’s Larry Madowo had a conversation with the Microsoft boss on why he chose Kenya as well as his views on the company’s latest product, innovation and what the future holds for tech.

Here is the excerpts of the interview.

Of all the places, why are you in Nairobi?

I’m here in Kenya and in Nairobi to listen and learn. The core mission of Microsoft is to empower every person and organisation on the planet to achieve more.

I felt that in order to realise that mission with the Windows 10 launch we wanted to celebrate with our fans all over the world instead of going to a media-rich country.

We wanted to go out there where our fans are because we are a truly global product and we have usage everywhere. I wanted to come (personally) to Kenya because I felt this was a place where I needed to be to learn.

This morning I had a chance to spend some time in Nanyuki, this afternoon and evening I’ll spend it with Windows 10 fans at a party in Nairobi (Arboretum).

So what did you learn in Nanyuki?

One of the most exciting things for us is to see how even in rural parts of Kenya local entrepreneurs and students benefit from access to Internet and devices.

So we’ve partnered with a local entrepreneur there to provide access solutions using some technology that was developed with Microsoft research around TV whitespace (space between TV channels); In essence, how to use TV whitespace to deliver last mile connectivity in a rural area.

The magic happens once you have connectivity. Students now can improve their grades.

READ: Microsoft starts low-cost Internet plans in Nanyuki