Today Microsoft Corp chief executive officer Steve Ballmer announced new partnerships with the government of Angola, and closer collaboration with the European Union (EU) to accelerate Africa’s social and economic development at the second annual African Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) Best Practices Forum.

Organised in partnership with the government of Burkina Faso and the EU, the forum brings high-level officials in the public sector, multilateral and non-governmental organisations, and business leaders together to discuss how ICT can help foster more efficient and transparent public services and development across the continent.

Through its Unlimited Potential commitment, and in support of the UN’s Millennium Development Goals, the partnerships Microsoft announced today will accelerate the adoption of relevant, affordable and accessible technology in both the public and private sector. The partners will combine their respective expertise in development and technology to develop projects and solutions applicable across Africa.