“technology Must Benefit Everyone”: an Interview wiht Orange Réunion-MayotteS André Martin
André Martin, general Manager of Orange Réunion-Mayotte, paints a picture of a digital future deeply rooted in local needs and national sovereignty. More than just connectivity, he stresses, technology’s value lies in its ability to uplift communities and bolster France’s strategic position in the Indian Ocean.
“Technology only makes sense if it benefits everyone,” Martin emphasizes, notably focusing on the persistent unemployment challenges in Réunion and Mayotte.This commitment translates into a meaningful expansion of free digital inclusion programs offered through Orange Digital Centers. Sence 2022, these centers have already supported over 10,000 individuals, providing crucial digital skills training and professional retraining opportunities.
Orange Réunion-Mayotte isn’t simply offering courses; it’s fostering innovation and direct pathways to employment.The “Pimp My App” programme, a week-long intensive design challenge for teams of six, exemplifies this approach. The program’s success is striking: a remarkable 65% of participants secured employment following their involvement.
Further initiatives like “Entrepreneur&IA” - held for the first time in October 2023 – are equipping job seekers and budding entrepreneurs with the fundamentals of business creation and the power of artificial intelligence, while together connecting them to the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. Dedicated support for female entrepreneurs through the “Women Entrepreneurs” program further underscores orange’s commitment to inclusive growth.
Beyond access and skills, Martin highlights the critical importance of digital sovereignty and security. he warns against relying solely on foreign providers. “We must not be naive: if we give way to foreign players like Starlink,we will lose our autonomy,” he asserts. Orange Marine, the group’s submarine cable laying subsidiary, plays a vital role in securing this independence, responsible for laying between 15% and 20% of the world’s underwater cables. Currently, three primary routes connect Réunion and Mayotte to Africa and Europe, ensuring robust and resilient internet connectivity.
Investing in the security of this underwater infrastructure is paramount. Orange is actively bolstering cybersecurity capabilities, developing a dedicated team in Réunion expected to grow to around fifteen local experts. Martin stresses the pervasive nature of the threat: “The question is no longer if you will be attacked, but when it will happen, because no one is safe.”
Orange Réunion-Mayotte is demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental obligation. Currently, 20% of smartphone sales on Réunion Island are reconditioned devices, and 10% of the company’s antennas are powered by solar energy.
“Our strength,” Martin concludes,”is to combine a solid local anchor with the power of a large international group. We put the best of technology at the service of the economic progress of our territories and participate in the digital sovereignty of France in the Indian ocean.”
