While the growth of these markets will be predominantly driven by the above, Samsung aim to develop the local industry further by establishing further knock-down plants – where currently there are such plants in Sudan, South Africa, Nigeria, Ethiopia and Senegal. Additionally, Mr. Park highlighted the company‘s plans to broaden sales and marketing strategies. In 2011 and beyond, Samsung will focus much of its marketing dollars on 30 cities in 14 countries, developing customised messages that will connect with the African people and support its global and regional products.

“Our products not only make peoples’ lives easier and more enjoyable, but they can also contribute to solutions for social and environmental problems,” added Mr. Park. “One example of this effort is our flagship program – Samsung Electronics Engineering Academy (SEEA), which was created to develop young leaders for Africa‘s feature.”

The launch of SEEA was created to align Samsung‘s CSR vision – “Built in Africa, for Africa, by Africa”. Four schools will participate in the pilot program. Samsung intends to develop 10,000 electronics engineers in Africa by 2015, a few thousand coming from the South Africa program. This commitment aligns with the South African government‘s drive of creating employment for millions of youth.

Additionally, corporate social responsibility was a key discussion point at the regional forum. Applying the same level of dedication to becoming a leader in the electronics industry, Samsung discussed plans to support the development of people around the world.

Another key area for the Samsung brand in elevating their commitment to the African continent, through creating differentiated customer experiences and service levels, are the unique and exclusive brand stores they have initiated for their customers.

To date, Samsung boast around 200 brand-stores, 100 shop in shops, 100 Mobile plaza‘s and 10 IT solutions centres. Furthermore, Samsung – through their key value of prosperity - has generated strong business and development sector partnerships in Africa with a preferred partner profile of 318 of which – but not limited to - Google, DSTV, as well as government and education ministries make up a large portion.

However, unique to the Samsung 2011 Africa Forum was an exhibition zone called ―Built for Africa,‖ which showcased products specifically tailored for the region.

As an innovative leader in the electronics industry, where 5-6% of revenue per annum is spent on R&D investment and where currently 24 R&D centres and 39 manufacturing subsidiaries across 68 countries exist – it is no wonder that Samsung is ranked the 19th Global Brand for consistent growth year on year, in terms of brand value.

“Samsung globally is one of the world‘s 50 most admired brands and I certainly believe that Africa has a large role to play in this brand reputation and that the continued active investment and commitment to the continent will see Samsung Africa demonstrate an even more larger presence in this regard," concludes Mr Park.

Follow the Forum on Twitter with the official hashtag - #SamsungAfricaForum.