The 16th edition of the CIO100 Symposium and Awards is poised to bring together Africa’s top IT leaders to discuss emerging trends and challenges shaping the continent’s digital landscape.
With AI as one of the hottest topics in technology, this year’s event will highlight how artificial intelligence (AI) has impacted businesses across Africa.
According to Andrew Karanja, Director of CIO Africa by dx5, this year’s event, set to take place from November 20–22, 2024 in Naivasha, will be more than just a celebration.
“It’s a testament to the relentless spirit of innovation driving our continent forward,” Karanja said.
“By recognizing those at the forefront of integrating technology into business strategy, we are setting a standard and inspiring a future where technology plays a pivotal role in business success and societal advancement in Africa,” he added.
The symposium has attracted speakers from across the continent, including South Africa, Nigeria, and even the UAE, promising attendees a transformative experience. The agenda features keynote speeches, panel discussions, and workshops led by industry experts, covering key topics such as: AI and machine learning, Cybersecurity and data privacy, Cloud computing and digital transformation and The Internet of Things (IoT).
A highlight of the symposium will be the recognition of the top 100 CIOs in Africa who have shown exceptional leadership and innovation. In a recent teaser session held at dx5’s offices in Tatu City, CIOs gathered to discuss the role of AI in modern business.
The session featured insights from current CIO of the Year, Charles Washika, Director of ICT and Innovations at Cooperative Bank Kenya, as well as this year’s CIO of the Year nominee, Gilbert Mutai, CIO at Car & General, and past CIO of the Year winner Kenneth Ogwang’, Head of Digital and Technology at Diageo. The discussion, moderated by Peter Kanda, co-founder of TruSource.io, explored the transformative impact of AI across industries.
Washika highlighted the importance of adopting AI and emerging technologies, particularly in the banking sector where data security is critical. “Security is essential as we handle significant amounts of customer data, which is frequently targeted by attackers who are also leveraging AI in their efforts. We must utilize these technologies to stay ahead, ensuring robust systems and data protection,” he said.
Ogwang’ shared the same sentiments, noting that companies are increasingly investing in emerging technologies to maintain a competitive edge.
The event will conclude with a celebration of the top 100 organizations leveraging technology to revolutionize their industries and the tech space, as well as the leaders driving these innovations. The coveted CIO of the Year award will also be presented to an individual within one of the top 100 organizations who has successfully integrated technology with the company’s vision and business strategy.
Past CIO of the Year recipients include Moses Okundi (CTO/CIO of Absa Bank), Tom Mboya (Technology Lead for East Africa at Unilever), George Njuguna (former CIO at Safaricom PLC), Jaine Mwai (CIO at Standard Chartered Bank), and Kenneth Ogwang’ (Head of Digital and Technology for Eastern and Southern Africa at Diageo).
Double nominee (2023 and 2024) Gilbert Mutai, CIO at Car & General Group, expressed his excitement for this year’s event, stating, “The CIO100 Symposium has always provided an excellent opportunity to learn from and engage with peers.”
The 2024 event’s sponsors include AWS, Freshworks, BUI, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Westcon-Comstor, ManageEngine, Africa Data Centres, SEACOM, Relational FS, Servercore, Radware, IP River, and Cloud Plexo.
