2021 , the latest report from security specialist Positive Technologies . The research also reveals that the volume of attacks on governmental institutions in particular soared from 12 % in Q1 , 2021 to 20 % in Q2 , 2021 .

In this regard , we continue to cover articles in this edition of the magazine addressing the issue of ransomware attacks and cybersecurity in general , and how channel partners are helping customers to protect their digital assets .

Gracing the cover of this month ’ s edition , is Mario M . Veljovic , General Manager , VAD Technologies LLC , who tells how the valueadded distributor is ramping up its channel partners activities to foster growth in the MENA channel . Among the many insights , Veljovic shares that : “ We are working with a large number of channel partners in the region and offering a wide range of technologies , covering high performance data centre equipment , IT service

management ( ITSM ) technologies , physical security solutions and all this blended with a cloud and AI touch . We are also focusing now on bringing AI-based solutions to the market that will support human efficiency . Key trends we see here are AI powered computer vision and communication bots .” You can read more by turning to page 19 . This month ’ s Expert Speak comes from Sherifa Hady , EMEA Channel Sales Director , HPE Aruba , who shares three key technology demands that are on the increase among customers and that channel partners should be paying attention to .

And don ’ t forget to find out about this month ’ s channel chiefs on pages 61 to 64 . The interviewees are Mukesh Kumar , Alliances and Channel Director , MENA , Salesforce and Maury G , Managing Partner , Levels Ventures .

And , as usual , we have all of your favourite features and news from around the regions – check our website for daily updates . I hope you enjoy this edition and do not hesitate to get in touch if you have anything you would like to share with regards to the channel . You can email me at manda @ lynchpinmedia . co . uk .

Manda Banda Editor

INTELLIGENT TECH CHANNELS Issue 44 15