Across the continent, manufacturers are increasingly integrating automation, digitalisation, and data-driven intelligence into their operations. With robust digital infrastructure in place, they are well positioned to compete in a dynamic global environment. Vertiv’s experience in the field affirms this shift: as organisations across sectors modernise to remain competitive, manufacturing is demonstrating exceptional momentum in digital maturity.

A report by KPMG highlights that 76% of manufacturers are prepared to embrace new technologies — the highest rate among eight industries surveyed, including finance, healthcare, retail, and technology.

Preparing for a Data-Intensive Future

To capitalise on this transformation, manufacturers must upgrade their data centre capabilities to manage increasingly data-heavy workloads. The surge in data generated by sensors, machinery, and supply chains requires infrastructure that ensures scalable, secure storage and real-time analytics.

According to the Manufacturing Leadership Council, digital transformation is redefining global manufacturing. In its Smart Factories and Digital Production survey, 60% of participants said technology is reshaping their industry. The study also found that 75% of manufacturers have now reached mid-level digital maturity, a notable increase since 2023, and 89% expect their investment in smart factory systems to either rise or remain stable in 2025.

However, challenges persist. Almost half (49%) of manufacturers cite outdated legacy systems as a major obstacle, up from 39% in 2024, while workforce limitations and resistance to change also hinder progress.

Bridging the Gap Between Technology and Production

The convergence of operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) is transforming the factory floor. Advanced tools such as IoT sensors, robotic process automation (RPA), and machine learning enable manufacturers to achieve higher accuracy, real-time insights, and greater production efficiency.

Yet, these advancements come with increased demands for computing power and system reliability. In regions where energy instability is common, unplanned power outages can result in significant financial losses and production downtime. Resilient infrastructure, including uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems and battery energy storage solutions (BESS), plays a critical role in preventing these costly disruptions.

Building Smarter, More Resilient Supply Chains

Modern manufacturers must operate with agility and precision. Whether responding to market fluctuations or managing real-time inventory, supply chain transparency is now a necessity. By adopting digital tools such as RFID tracking, advanced analytics, and logistics optimisation platforms, manufacturers are reducing waste, enhancing responsiveness, and building data-driven, efficient supply chains.

The Road Ahead: Digital Transformation as a Competitive Advantage

Automation and digital connectivity are reshaping the manufacturing landscape, improving productivity, visibility, and employee engagement. What was once viewed as a futuristic ambition has become a present-day business requirement. Companies that invest in digital infrastructure today are laying the groundwork for sustained innovation and competitiveness.

Vertiv: A Strategic Partner in Africa’s Industrial Evolution

Africa’s potential as a manufacturing powerhouse is immense, but achieving this vision depends on reliable and scalable infrastructure. Vertiv remains committed to supporting this transformation through advanced technologies, international expertise, and a strong local footprint.

The company’s range of solutions includes pre-engineered, rapidly deployable systems such as the Vertiv SmartCabinet and Vertiv SmartAisle, designed to accelerate deployment, minimise costs, and boost energy efficiency. At the core level, Vertiv provides integrated power and cooling systems, including the Vertiv Liebert EXM2 UPS, engineered to deliver stable and efficient power even in challenging conditions.

Additionally, the Vertiv Liebert Hipulse-U industrial UPS serves as a vital component for critical manufacturing operations, offering a scalable and user-friendly system to ensure uninterrupted availability.

For more details about Vertiv’s activities and offerings across Africa, visit the official Vertiv Africa website.

Written By:

Cole Jackson

Lead Associate at BRICS+ Consulting Group 

Chinese & Middle Eastern Specialist

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