Good-Standing Members

logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo
logo

Africa ICT Awards Background Information

The AfICTA ICT Awards Ceremony is held annually during AfICTA Summit, with the goal of identifying and honoring the most outstanding ICT leaders in public/private sectors across Africa, that have demonstrated exceptional achievement in using ICT to benefit organizations, governments, and society.  
 
The award categories:
  • Africa ICT Champion Award®
  • Africa ICT Personality Award®
  • Africa CIO Award®
  • Africa Innovation Award®
  • Africa Community Development Award®

Africa ICT Champion Award Winners

Leonard Stanley Ekeh (2013 Winner)

Name: Leonard Stanley Ekeh
Designation: Chairperson, Zinox Technologies Limited
ICT Field: Hardware
Nationality: Nigeria
Leonard "Leo" Stanley Nnamdi Ekeh (born February 22, 1956) is a Nigerian businessman and chairperson of Zinox Technologies Limited. In addition to Zinox, he has been involved with companies Task Systems, Technology Distributions Limited, ICT Brokers, TD Plus, ICT Connect and Buyright AFRICA Dotcom... Read more

Mr. Chris Uwaje (2014 Winner)

Name: Mr. Chris Uwaje 
Designation: Chair, Mobile Software Solutions Limited
ICT Field: Software
Nationality: Nigeria
Chris Uwaje (FNCS, FSP)

Chris Uwaje is acclaimed as the Pioneer of the National Information Technology Policy for Nigeria (2000-2002) which created the National IT Development Agency (NITDA). He is a founding member and Fellow of Nigeria Computer Society (NCS). He is also a Co-Founder, Past President and Fellow of the Institute of Software Practitioners of Nigeria (ISPON). Uwaje is the originator of NCS ‘National Information Technology Merit Award’... Read more

Mr. Lucky Masilela (2017 Winner)

Name: Mr. Lucky Masilela
Designation: CEO, ZA Central Registry (ZACR) 
ICT Field: Services
Nationality: South Africa
Lucky Masilela: CEO at ZA Central Registry (ZACR) and Chair Person of South African Communication Forum (SACF). Lucky Masilela had his education at Hampton university and major in applied physics and electronic engineering. He has vast experience of coordination as the chair person of South African communications forum for three... Read more

Mr. Chengetai Masango (2018 Winner)

Name: Mr. Chengetai Masango
Designation: Programme and Technology Manager, United Nations on Internet Governance Forum
ICT Field: Policies
Mr. Chengetai Masango is Senior Advisor at the Secretariat of the United Nations Secretary-General’s High-level Panel on Digital Cooperation. He is on temporary assignment from being head of the Secretariat of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF)  which was set up after the World Summit on the Information Society to read more

Mr Ebenezer Dare (2021 Winner)

Name: Mr Ebenezer Dare
Designation: Co-founder and CEO, Hostlag Limited
ICT Field: Services
Ebenezer Dare is a leadership coach who is passionate about business technology management. He is the co-founder and CEO at Hostlag Limited, a domain name and web hosting company. Ebenezer started Hostlag Limited with 200 dollars in 2018 and as at 2021, Hostlag acquired two other hosting companies in Lagos. read more

Engr. Atef Helmy (2021 Winner)

Name: Eng. Atef Helmy 
Designation: AfICTA Patron & Fmr. Minister, CIT Egypt
Nationality: Egypt

With more than 40 years of solid experience in business and in communications & information technology, Eng. Helmy lead numerous executive management positions in two Fortune 100 companies, namely NCR/AT&T and Oracle in the United States, Europe, Middle East, and Africa, reaching the positions of Managing Director of NCR UAE, Managing Director of Oracle Egypt, and Chairman of Orange Egypt. He has also contributed to the development of the digital society in Egypt and MEA... Read more

Mr. Adrian Schofield (2021 Winner)

Name: Mr. Adrian Schofield
Designation: fmr. Vice-Chair AfICTA
Nationality: South Africa
Adrian began his career in the UK petroleum industry, followed by some years in casino administration. He spent 25 years in various executive and consulting roles in the South African ICT sector prior to joining the Joburg Centre for Software Engineering at University of the Witwatersrand in 2008 as Manager: Applied Research Unit. From 2018 to 2021, he was appointed Production/Programme Consultant at IITPSA (Institute of Information Technology Professionals South Africa)... Read more

Engr. Lanre Ajayi (2021 Winner)

Name: Engr Lanre Ajayi
Designation: Founding Board Member/fmr. President ATCON
Nationality: Nigeria
Engr. Lanre Ajayi had his Bachelor and Master's degree in Electrical Engineering at the University of Lagos, Nigeria. He was trained on Data communications at GPT, Coventry, UK, as a British Council scholar and was further trained on Internet technologies and networking in Canada and Switzerland on the scholarships of the Internet Society (ISOC).

He worked for the Nigeria Telecommunications Ltd (NITEL) for 11 years... Read more

Mr Paul Rowney (2021 Winner)

Name: Mr Paul Rowney 
Designation: AfICTA Deputy Chairman
Nationality: Namibia

The key driver is inclusion and ICT4Development toward unlocking the digital potential of the African continent.  As co-founder and director of the MyDigitalBridge foundation, he was instrumental in a 2014 trial of TVWS in Namibia. He had supported local and global NGOs and IGOs in connectivity for development and engaged regulators, internet service providers, and companies on last-mile connectivity and financial inclusion.  He is the current chairperson of the Namibian e-Money... Read more

Ms Ulandi Exner (2021 Winner)

Name: Ms. Ulandi Exner
Designation: Southern Africa Vice Chair
Nationality: South Africa
Ms. Ulandi Exner is an ICT professional with over two decades of experience. She runs her own consulting practice and is a former President of the Institute of Information Technology Professionals South Africa (IITPSA). She serves on several boards and committees within the public, academic, and not-for-profit sectors. Ms. Exner advises organizations in areas of IT Governance, Cyber Security, Audit, Risk and policies, standards, and practices... Read more

Yusuph Kileo (2021 Winner)

Name: Yusuph Kileo
Designation: Board Member & Cybersecurity Expert
Nationality: Tanzania

He is an expert in the field of cybersecurity and Digital forensics. After completing his IT essentials course with Cisco certification, Yusuph Kileo continued his studies at Dar Es Salaam Institute of Technology – He was admitted to the Computer Engineering Department, majoring in computer technician studies. He joined Staffordshire University, where he was admitted to the computer science department. Kileo completed a BSc in Computers, majoring in Computer Security... Read more

Mr. Waddah Fadul (2021 Winner)

Name: Mr. Waddah Fadul
Designation: Board Member, CEO Institute of Tomorrow
Nationality: Sudan

He is an award-winning technology and digital strategy consultant who led multiple teams in MENA to achieve the “Best VAD” and “Best DC Technology Provider” awards by ‘The Reseller” and other prominent industry magazines. In 2017, Cisco Systems, the leading networking and technology provider, selected Waddah as “Cisco Champion” for his efforts in extending innovative data center consulting services and for adding digital and social value to Cisco’s brand in the region... Read more

Laicana Coulibaly (2021 Winner)

Name: Mr. Laicana Coulibaly
Designation: AfICTA Board & CEO Diamond Security Consulting
Nationality: Cote d'Ivoire

Laicana has more than 11 years of experience in the IT Security field, Laïcana COULIBALY is currently the CEO and founder of Diamond Security Consulting. Founded in 2012, Diamond Security Consulting provides IT Security services and solutions with customers in the Bank, Telecom, Construction, and IT sectors. During the last 3 years, he was in charge of the OWASP (Open Web Application Security Project) Chapter in Côte d’Ivoire. He started his career at CI-CERT... Read more

Prof Yemi Osinbajo (2022 Winner)

Name: Prof Yemi Osinbajo GCON
Designation: The Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria
Nationality: Ogun, Nigeria

Dr Vincent Olatunji (2024 Winner)

 Name: Dr Vincent Olatunji
 Designation: The National Commissioner/CEO, Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC)
 Nationality: FCT, Nigeria

Mr Lucas Oluoch (2025 Winner)

 Name: Mr Lucas Oluoch
 Designation: Principal ICT Officer, Kenya Wildlife Service
 Nationality: Nairobi, Kenya
 Profile Link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucas-oluoch-hsc-mcsa-mcse-cism-921a431b/ 
Lucas Oluoch, has demonstrated exceptional achievement is his ICT Career  by implementing robust technology at Kenya Wildlife Service whose  mandate and productivity has been enhanced by the top notch  technologies he put in place, positively impacting Wildlife and  Environmental Conservation. He is highly recommended for the Africa ICT  Champion Award for implementing ICT innovations that impacted Kenya  Wildlife Service conservation efforts, empowered Kenyan Government  economically and most importantly transformed many lives of Kenyan  Communities living along Kenyan National Parks.  Read More

Ms. Arinola Akinyemi (2025 Winner)

 Name: Ms. Arinola Akinyemi
 Designation: AfICTA Vice-Chair, West Africa
 Nationality: Nigeria

Arinola Akinyemi, AfICTA's Vice Chair, West Africa Arinola Akinyemi is the CEO of DigiSphere Limited an ICT Solutions company based in Abuja, Nigeria. Akinyemi has been in Omar Ventures Limited since 1998, she is also the founder and president of DigiSphere Centre for Digital Creativity Read more

Mr Abimbola Abioye (2025 Winner)

 Name: Mr Abimbola Abioye
 Designation: CEO, Fintrak Software and President, ISPON
 Country of Residence: Nigeria

Abimbola Abioye, a Board Member is the Chief Executive Officer of FinTrak Software and leads a team of talented and passionate professionals who are committed to delivering innovative and customer-centric software solutions for the financial services industry. With over 25 years of experience in... Read more

Ms. Manal Amin (2013 Winner)

Name: Ms. Manal Amin 
Designation: Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Arabize
ICT Field: Service
Nationality: Egypt

Manal Amin: She is the Founder and CEO of Arabize and one of the very first Egyptian entrepreneurs in language technology. She holds a BA in Political Science & a Diploma in translation. Manal has 30-year experience in the field of translation, localization & documentation; and mentored many generations of localizers and technical writers.  Manal was part of many boards and... Read more

Ms. Ranka Jovanovic (2016 Winner)

Name: Ms. Ranka Jovanovic
Designation: Editorial Director & Founding Member of ITWeb
ICT Field: Services
Nationality: South Africa
Ranka Jovanovic: is editorial director and founding member of ITWeb – South Africa’s leading technology-focused publisher, with media products and services that span diverse digital platforms, print and events.Since 1997, Ranka has led ITWeb’s editorial team (currently 25 journalists, editors and creatives) to grow into South Africa’s premier source of... Read more

Ms. Funke Opeke (2017 Winner)

Name: Ms. Funke Opeke 
Designation: CEO, MainOne Cables Company
ICT Field: Communication
Nationality: Nigeria
Funke Opeke is a Nigerian electrical engineer, founder of Main Street Technologies and Chief Executive Officer of Main One Cable Company, a communications services company based in Lagos State, south-western Nigeria. She obtained a Bachelor and master's degree in Electrical Engineering from Obafemi Awolowo University and Columbia University respectively... Read more

Mr. Hassanein Tawfiq (2020 Winner)

Name: Mr Hassanein Tawfiq
Designation: ACT Chairman and Managing Director
ICT Field: Software
Nationality: Egypt

Dr. Jimson Olufuye (2021 Winner)

Name: Dr. Jimson Olufuye
Designation: CEO, Kontemporary Konsulting Ltd & Founder/fmr Chair, AfICTA
Nationality: Nigeria
Dr Jimson Olufuye has more than 30 years experience in the national, regional, and global Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) industry. He is the Chairman/Principal Consultant at Kontemporary® Konsulting Ltd, an ICT solution company based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is also the Founder/1st Chair of the concerned private sector-led and over 35-nation strong Africa ICT Alliance – AfICTA (2012-2018). He is currently the Chair of the Advisory Council of AfICTA... Read more

Engr. Hossam Elgamal (2021 Winner)

Name: Engr. Hossam Elgamal
Designation: CEO IKEN / fmr. Chair AfICTA
Nationality: Egypt
Hossam Elgamal has more than 25 years of professional experience in ICT both in private and public sectors. After founding & managing several successful IT companies he was asked to bring his expertise into multi-stakeholder public policy management being selected in 2013 till Feb 2017 by the UN Sec. General to become one of 9 Global Business Representatives among the 55 MAG members advising on The Internet Governance Forum... Read more

Prof (Mrs) Nike Osofisan (2021 Winner)

Name: Prof (Mrs) Nike Osofisan 
Designation: frm. President, Computer Professional Registration Council of Nigeria
Nationality: Nigeria
Prof Adenike Osofisan was a pioneer student of the Department of Computer Science of the University of Ile-Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) ), and graduated with a 2nd Class Upper Division Honours Degree in Computer Science/Economics. She also has a Master’s degree in Computer Science in 1979 from Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta and a Ph.D. Computer Science in OAU to become the first of Nigerian woman to hold a Ph.D. degree in Computer Science... Read more

Mr Thabo Mashegoane (2021 Winner)

Name: Thabo Mashegoane
Designation: AfICTA Chair
Nationality: South Africa

Thabo has over 24 years experience of in implementing business systems which ranged from Six Sigma Process Improvement consulting, System Developer, Designer, Analyst, Enterprise / Business Architecture, and various Leadership roles in both the Financial Services and Electricity utility industry. He is a dynamic professional who transitioned from a Chemical Engineering profession in the FMCG industry to an IT profession which spanned... Read more

Eng Assem Wahby (2021 Winner)

Name: Eng Assem Wahby
Designation: AfICTA's North Africa Vice-Chair
Nationality: Egypt

He is the Top Management Consultant at the Advanced Computer Technology (ACT). Assem is an experienced Management consultant in corporate strategy, planning and organizational transformation management. In his capacity he offers advice, business strategies and techniques that would improve the performance and profitability of ACT. Assem has more than 37+ years of strategic, operational and management experience in both consulting and the technology industry... Read more

Dr. Waudo Siganga (2021 Winner)

Name: Dr Waudo Siganga
Designation: AfICTA's East Africa Vice-Chair
Nationality: Kenya
He is a Director of the World Information Technology & Services Alliance (WITSA), a consortium of ICT industry association members from over 80 countries representing more than 90 percent of the world IT market (www.wista.org). His expertise and training is in the field of Computer Science, specifically heuristics and artificial intelligence. He also has extensive experience in the area of Internet Governance where he has played numerous roles including being... Read more

Mr. Opeyemi Onifade (2021 Winner)

Name: Mr. Opeyemi Onifade
Designation: AfICTA Treasurer & CEO Afenoid Enterprise Ltd
Nationality: Nigeria
He founded Afenoid in 2011 and Centre for Cyber Resilience and Digital Economy (CRADE) in 2016 in order to position organizations and professionals to capitalize on the opportunities of the digital age. Prior to this, Opeyemi was Chief Information Security Officer at Galaxy Backbone Plc, Nigeria, and Country Information Security Officer with Ecobank Transnational Incorporated where he helped to translate security controls to business enablers leading to the development of... Read more

Timilehin Ambali (2021 Winner)

Name: Mr. Timilehin Ambali 
Designation: Board Member & COO Dotengee Enterprise
Nationality: Nigeria

He is the COO of Dotengee a web solution company. He is a geek with many years of experience in IT with core knowledge in network infrastructure/integration (LAN/WLAN), systems administration, graphic design, web development, web optimization and security tools. He is also vast in data/information security, and disaster recovery. He studied Information Technology and graduated from Irish University Business School in 2014... Read more

Muhammadu Buhari (2022 Winner)

Name: President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR
Designation: The President, Federal Republic of Nigeria
Nationality: Daura, Nigeria

Mr Mactar Seck (2023 Winner)

 Name: Mr Mactar Seck
 Designation: Senior Economic Affairs Officer, UNECA
 Nationality: Dakar, Senegal

Dr. Mactar Seck is a distinguished leader in the fields of telecommunications, ICT4D, Digital Inclusion & Gender Mainstreaming, SMMEs, Digital Financial Services, and STI., boasting a career that spans over two decades. Renowned for his unwavering commitment to digital policy strategy, regulatory frameworks, and Internet governance, Dr. Seck has solidified his status as a trailblazer in Africa’s digital transformation. His extensive portfolio includes a deep understanding of digital infrastructure, capacity building, and advanced technologies, ranging from nanotechnology and IoTs to Artificial Intelligence, emphasizing his pivotal role as an innovative force in the dynamic digital landscape

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mactar-seck-462b60155/

Mr Inye Kemabonta (2023 Winner)

 Name: Mr. Inye Kemabonta
 Designation: Principal Consultant, Tech Law Development  Services & AfICTA National Coordinator, Nigeria
 Nationality: Nigeria

Inye Kemabonta is an Information Technology lawyer with a deep knowledge of the Nigerian Public Sector but who currently represents and advances the interest of private sector tech businesses. He is currently the Nigerian National Coordinator of AfICTA (Africa ICT Alliance), a not-for-profit body whose vision is to fulfill the promise of the digital age for everyone in Africa... Read more

https://ng.linkedin.com/in/inye-kemabonta-50187a16

Mr Samwel Kinuthia Kariuki (2024 Winner)

 Name: Mr Samwel Kinuthia Kariuki
 Designation: Cyber Security and Networks Expert
 Nationality: Nairobi, Kenya

Ms. Rachael Shitanda (2025 Winner)

 Name: Ms. Rachael Shitanda
 Designation: Deputy Chair and Vice-Chair East Africa 
 Country of Residence: Kenya
 

Rachael Shitanda, AfICTA Deputy Chair & Vice-Chair East Africa is a distinguished computer scientist with a multi-faceted career. Currently serving as a Council Member in the Computer Society of Kenya's Policy Formulation and Engagement Committee, she also holds the position... Read more

Dr Robinson Sibe (2025 Winner)

 Name: Dr Robinson Sibe
 Designation: CEO, Digital Footprints Nig. Ltd
 Nationality: Abuja, Nigeria
 Profile Link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tombarisibe/
Dr. Sibe is a globally respected Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity Leader. He has played key roles in cybersecurity consulting and led several complex digital forensic investigations (unable to list here for privacy and security reasons). He has also supported key national institutions in digital forensic investigation, policy contributions, building capacity, cybersecurity readiness, and promoting cybersecurity awareness. He has conducted several high-level consultancy and trainings in Cybersecurity and digital forensic investigation for key national institutions, law enforcement agencies, and others, both in Nigeria and internationally. He was recently awarded Cybersecurity Personality of the Year 2025 at the Nigeria Cybersecurity Conference, organized by the Nigeria Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Ministry of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy, and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA). This year (2025), his practice has taken him to several countries including Ghana, Rwanda, Seychelles, Netherlands, Spain, and Thailand... Read More

Africa ICT Personality Award Winners

Nermine El Saadany (2016 Winner)

Name: Nermine El Saadany
Designation: Undersecretary, International Relations Division and Senior Coordinator for Egyptian IG task force
Nationality: Egypt
Nermine El Saadany is the Undersecretary, International Relations Division and Senior Coordinator for Egyptian IG task force. She served as the Vice Chair of the (WSIS+10) Multistakeholder Preparatory Platform, Vice President of the ITU – WTDC 2014, Vice President of the ITU Plenipotentiary Working Group in 2010 and the... Read more

Mr. Chengetai Masango (2018 Winner)

Name: Mr. Chengetai Masango
Designation: Programme and Technology Manager, United Nations on Internet Governance Forum
ICT Field: Policies
Mr. Chengetai Masango is Senior Advisor at the Secretariat of the United Nations Secretary-General’s High-level Panel on Digital Cooperation. He is on temporary assignment from being head of the Secretariat of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF)  which was set up after the World Summit on the Information Society to read more

Dr. Hazem El Tahawy (2021 Winner)

Name: Dr. Hazem El Tahawy
Designation: VP Siemens EDA, Mena Region
Nationality: Egypt
Graduated from Cairo University, Faculty of Engineering (Electronics and Communication) in 1976, he got his Masters and Ph.D. Degrees, Microelectronics specialization in 1982 and 1987 respectively from National Polytechnic Institute, Grenoble France. Dr. El Tahawy was a co-founder of ANACAD (The first...  Read more

Prof. Isa Pantami (2022 Winner)

Name: Prof Isa Pantami
Designation: Honorable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy
Nationality: Gombe, Nigeria

Mr Muli Mutuku (2024 Winner)

 Name: Mr Muli Mutuku
 Designation: ICT Specialist
 Nationality: Kenya

Mr Chris Uwaje (2025 Winner)

 Name: Mr Chris Uwaje
 Designation: Former President of Institute of Software Practitioners of Nigeria (ISPON)
 Nationality: Lagos, Nigeria
 Profile Link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-uwaje-a5233325/?originalSubdomain=ng 

Known as the Oracle of the Nigerian IT Industry, Chris pioneered the framework and strategy for the National Information Technology Development Policy for Nigeria. He is the acclaimed pioneer of National Policy for Information Technology (2001) that established the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), as well as the National Software Strategy for Nigeria.

He designed and deployed pilot e-Government Solutions and training for the
Federal Government of Nigeria at the following sites: The Presidency, National Assembly, Federal Ministry of Science and Technology, EFCC, Federal Ministry of Finance, and Federal Ministry of Education and National Commission Abuja. Read More

Abdur-Raheem Adebayo S. (2017 Winner)

Name: Barr. Abdur-Raheem Adebayo Shittu 
Designation: Former Minister for Communications
Nationality: Nigeria
Abdur-Raheem Adebayo Shittu (born 23 March 1953) is a former minister from Oyo State, Nigeria. He became the youngest at age 26, to take the office of the Honourable Member of the Oyo State House of Assembly. Honorable Adebayo Shittu gained admission into the University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife... Read more

Mr. Kola Okunola (2020 Winner)

Name: Mr. Kola Okunola
Designation: SA/ICT · ‎Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS)
ICT Field: Services
Nationality: Nigeria

Mr. Darsanand Balgobin (2022 Winner)

Name: Mr Darsanand Balgobin
Designation: Minister of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation
Nationality: Mauritius

Dr Krishnan Ranganath (2023 Winner)

 Name: Dr Krishnan Ranganath
 Designation: West Africa Regional Executive, Africa Data   Centres
 Nationality: India, Nigeria

Dr. Krishnan Ranganath is instrumental to the proliferation of data centres in Nigeria, which is, in turn, making the hosting of data and content local today in the country. This has significantly addressed the issues of capital flight and reduced the cost of data in Nigeria.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkrishnan/

Download PDF File

Dr Khaled El attar (2024 Winner)

 Name: Dr Khaled El attar
 Designation: Ex-Vice Minister - Digital Transformation, Automation and Administrative Development
 Nationality: Cairo, Egypt

Dr. Akinbo Adebunmi (2025 Winner)

 Name: Dr. Adebunmi Akinbo
 Designation: Founder, DNS Africa Media and Communications,
 Nationality: Lagos, Nigeria
 Profile Link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akinbo 

Adebunmi Akinbo is a dedicated professional in the African tech and media industry with a proven track record of leadership and a strong focus on community empowerment. He is the founder of DNS Africa Media and Communications, a sub-franchise of DNS World Media and Communications, where he leads impactful initiatives designed to connect and empower grassroots communities across Africa.

His commitment to building a better future is evident through his involvement with several prominent organizations. He is the founder of Community NetHUBs Africa and Culture Games Africa and currently serves on the Board of Trustees of the African ICT Foundation (AfICTF). A pioneer board member and former Director of the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA), he also served as the organization’s Acting Chief Operations Officer. Read More

Africa CIO Award Winners

Dr. Stanley Mpofu (2021 Winner)

Name: Dr. Stanley Mpofu
Designation: The Chief Information Officer (CIO), University of Witwatersrand
Nationality: South Africa

As per Dr Stanley the vision is to build an ICT department that is relevant and agile, deals with issues with urgency with an aim of contributing to a university that is in a digital state, competing internationally". The COVID-19 lockdown forced the Dr and his team to move swiftly in scaling their capacity to provide students with Read more

Dr Mohamed Hamed (2023 Winner)

 Name: Dr Mohamed Hamed
 Designation: Chief Technology Officer, Ceramica Platino
 Nationality: Cairo, Egypt

He is a C-Level Technology Consultant. Well experience with 25 years in the information technology and security Executive Management Positions, As he has been exposed to many aspects of Information Technology, he acquired knowledge in most IT infrastructure solutions.

He thrives when challenged by new IT ideas and innovative applications of technology Specialties: IT infrastructure solutions in (Artificial intelligence / Internet of Things (IoT) / Machine learning / digital transformation ) , with all Microsoft Systems & Applications, Oracle Applications and SAP Applications.

He has strong technical and business qualifications and has experience with different industries including Hospitality, manufacturing, Fintech, Medical, Food, Travel and Booking, LMS , and E-commerce.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/eng-mohamedhamed/

Download Profile

Ms Jaqueline Madara Dondo (2025 Winner)

 Name: Ms Jaqueline Madara Dondo
 Designation:  ICT Director, Machakos University
 Nationality: Machakos, Kenya
 Profile Link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaqueline-madara-dondo 


 

Jaqueline Madara Dondo is an award winner, having held a distinctive recognition of Top 100 Cybersecurity Women to watch in Africa 2024 among other recognitions, she is  also a visionary ICT leader, cybersecurity expert, AI enthusiast, and mentor,  as Head of ICT at Machakos University with a distinguished career in technology leadership and digital transformation, she has been instrumental in driving cybersecurity strategies, AI integration, and ICT policy development within the institution.

As an innovative leader, Jaqueline has spearheaded initiatives to enhance university-wide digital security, automate key processes, and implement AI-driven solutions to improve service delivery. Her expertise in enterprise systems, risk management, and emerging technologies has positioned her as a key decision-maker in shaping the university’s technological future.  A strong advocate for cybersecurity, Jaqueline has led awareness programs to strengthen institutional data protection and safeguard critical systems against cyber threats. She has also championed the adoption of AI-driven solutions in learning and administration, ensuring Machakos University remains at the forefront of digital transformation. Read More

Mr Sina Aiyegbusi (2022 Winner)

Name: Mr Sina Aiyegbusi
Designation: Head, Group Information Technology and Digital Banking
Nationality: Lagos, Nigeria

Mr Adesegun Orafidiya (2024 Winner)

 Name: Mr Adesegun Orafidiya
 Designation: CIO & Head of Information & Digital Technology, British America Tobacco
 Nationality: Lagos, Nigeria

Africa Innovation Award Winners

Mr. Segun Olugbile (2021 Winner)

Name:  Mr. Segun Olugbile
Designation: CEO, Data Analytics Privacy Technology
Nationality: Nigeria

‘Olusegun H. Olugbile, PDG (IT), MSc (Cybersecurity, Nigeria), FIIM, FESSIG (Germany), CDPSE ISACA (USA), FNCPC, CDOA-MIT (USA), Ph.D. (Cybersecurity in-view, Nigeria), UN Internet governance Advisor and a Chair, UN Cybersecurity Best Practice Forum. An international cybersecurity technology advocate/ Read more

Mr Joshua Obed (2023 Winner)

 Name: Mr Joshua Obed
 Designation: Managing Director, Gugu Robotics 
 Nationality: Abuja, Nigeria

As an African innovator, Joshua Obed's passion lies in leveraging artificial intelligence to tackle challenges across various industries. From utilizing drones in farming to improving health systems, enhancing surveillance capabilities, and revolutionizing education, he has been at the forefront of developing AI projects that have the power to transform lives.

In the realm of agriculture, he has developed AI-powered drones that optimize crop management, ensuring efficient and sustainable farming practices. By providing real-time data on soil conditions, crop health, and water usage, these drones empower farmers to make data-driven decisions and increase their yields.

Download Profile

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-obed-50682b271?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app

Ms Grace Kaimburi (2024 Winner)

 Name: Name: Ms. Grace Kaimburi
 Designation: Research Associate - Climate and AI
 Nationality: Nairobi, Kenya

Mr Godwin Okwara (2025 Winner)

 Name: Mr Godwin Okwara
 Designation: Technical/IT Engineer
 Nationality: Texas, United States
 Profile Link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/godwin-okwara-37494319a/ 

Godwin Okwara has demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation in the ICT field by bridging data science, cloud infrastructure, and public-impact technology across Africa and beyond. During his tenure at Guaranty Trust Bank Plc (Nigeria), he developed and deployed real-time data streaming systems using Apache Kafka and Oracle GoldenGate to process over one million daily transactions, significantly improving financial transparency and digital service reliability; directly contributing to job creation and fintech ecosystem growth.

At Bahrain Financing Company, he led the migration of legacy banking infrastructure to scalable cloud platforms, enabling secure, data-driven financial operations. His contributions to AI-based medical diagnostics and national data systems through research and public-interest technology reflect his dedication to advancing ICT for social good. Through his work, Godwin has shaped ICT policies emphasizing data-driven innovation, cybersecurity, and workforce empowerment, positioning him as an emerging leader in Africa’s digital transformation landscape.

Mr. Eric Sindeu (2022 Winner)

Name: Mr Eric Sindeu
Designation: Founder & CEO, KEMITEL Ltd
Nationality: Yaounde, Cameroon

Mr Mohammed Omara (2024 Winner)

 Name: Mr Mohammed Omara
 Designation: Founder & CEO/CTO, Hoopoe Digital 
 Nationality: Cairo, Egypt

Dr Amos Obi (2024 Winner)

 Name: Dr Amos Obi
 Designation: CEO, Hetaved Skills Academy for innovations and Entrepreneurship 
 Nationality: Delta, Nigeria

Africa Community Development Award Winners

Mr Stanley Dankyira (2021 Winner)

Name:  Mr Stanley Dankyira
Designation: Founder, Maxim Nyansa IT Solution
Nationality: Ghana
Stanley is the founder of Maxim Nyansa IT Solution an NGO dedicated to create career opportunities for young Africans using information technology. Its programmes have impacted many thousands of school children and young IT professionals from underprivileged families getting them a career in ICT, first in Ghana now Read more

Adv. Nandipha Ntsaluba (2023 Winner)

 Name: Advocate Nandipha Ntsaluba
 Designation: Strategist and Legal Support,   Department of Military Veterans, South Africa
 Nationality: Rustenburg, South Africa

Advocate Nandipha Ntsaluba is a selfless leader who has grown in the corporate ranks and is knowledgeable in various subjects that in include the ICT and where she renders legal advice. She has made serious strides in her contribution to the ICT environment. As the Deputy Chairperson of the National Coordinating Committee for PAIA Implementation, she developed the ICTS cluster's Data Governance Policy to ensure GDPR and POPIA compliance in creating and deploying the Military Veterans on the Home Affairs MIlitary Veterans Data Management System.


https://www.linkedin.com/in/nthabeleng-tlome-a6b01723/

https://www.icloud.com/iclouddrive/0e5yu-EMsyjQ-f8LISsWRkciA#Advocate_Ntsaluba_Biography

Download Profile

Dr kossi AMESSINOU (2024 Winner)

 Name: Dr Kossi Amessinou
 Designation: Doctor, Information and Communication Sciences
 Nationality: Benin

Mr Alphonce Odhiambo (2024 Winner)

 Name: Mr Alphonce Odhiambo
 Designation: Network and Infrastructure Services Engineer
 Nationality: Nairobi, Kenya

Mr. Ahmed Ismael (2022 Winner)

Name: Mr. Ahmed Ismael
Designation: CEO, Siyafunda Community Technology Centre
Nationality: Johannesburg, South Africa

Mr Robinson Tombari Sibe (2023 Winner)

Name: Mr Robinson Tombari Sibe
Designation: Co-Founder, CEO & Lead Forensic Examiner Digital Footprints Nig. Ltd
Nationality: Nigeria

Dr. Sibe has continued to show exemplary leadership and service to the community. He is the Founder, CEO, and Lead Forensic Examiner at Digital Footprints Nig. Ltd. Below is a summary of his exemplary service to the community in 2023 (all services done pro bono).

1. Lecture and supervise projects in Digital Forensics and cybersecurity, at the National Open University. This is done pro bono as part my contribution to bridge the cybersecurity skills gap in Nigeria... Download Profile

www.linkedin.com/in/tombarisibe 

Ms Hoda Dahroug (2024 Winner)

 Name: Ms Hoda Dahroug
 Designation: Advisor to the Minister for Digital Community Development MCIT, Egypt
 Nationality: Egypt

Mr Hanniel Hamisu Jafaru (2025 Winner)

 Name: Mr Hanniel Hamisu Jafaru
 Designation: Executive Director, HTC Academy & Cybersecurity & AI Governance Expert
 Nationality: Abuja, Nigeria
 Profile Link: www.hannielhj.com 

Hanniel H. Jafaru stands as one of Africa’s most inspiring voices in technology-driven community development, cybersecurity advocacy, and youth empowerment. His initiatives have empowered hundreds of young Africans with future-proof digital skills and continue to shape Africa’s transition into a sustainable digital economy. In 2024, Hanniel was nominated as an Outstanding Cybersecurity Individual, a recognition that underscores his leadership in promoting cybersecurity awareness, digital resilience, and responsible technology use across Africa. Beyond technical excellence, he channels his expertise into transformative community impact—bridging the gap between talent and opportunity through inclusive tech education.

Through the HTC Academy's 100,000 Tech Career Apprenticeship and Mentorship Program (Tech CAMP), which he initiated and runs completely free of charge, Hanniel has created a continent-wide digital empowerment movement. Currently, 424 learners are being trained in five specializations—Backend Development, Frontend Development, Ethical Hacking, Data Analysis, and Product Design—with a long-term goal to expand into at least 30 career specialization tracks. His model ensures that anyone, regardless of background, can access high-quality mentorship and hands-on tech training. Hanniel also founded the Tech Mentorship Series, designed to prepare aspiring tech enthusiasts with the essential mindset, awareness, and strategic insight to succeed in the rapidly evolving global tech landscape. Read More

AfICTA Chairman Award Winners

Eng. Hossam Elgamal (2014 Winner)

Name: Engr. Hossam Elgamal
Designation: CEO IKEN
Nationality: Egypt
Eng. Hossam Elgamal, Immediate Past AfICTA Chair has more than 25 years of professional experience in ICT both in private and public sectors. After founding and managing several successful IT companies he was asked to bring his expertise into public policy management being selected in 2013 and till Feb 2017 by the UN Secretary General to become one of 9 Global Business Representatives among... Read more

Mr. Adrian Schofield (2015 Winner)

Name: Adrian Schofield
Designation: Former Vice-President IITPSA
Nationality: South Africa
Adrian Schofield, former Vice-President of IITPSA Born in the south of England, Adrian Schofield's career began in the petroleum industry and later moved into casino administration. Adrian emigrated to Southern Africa in 1981 (acquiring South African citizenship in the new democracy), where he has worked in casino management, in financial computer systems... Read more

Ms. Arinola Akinyemi (2017 Winner)

Name: Ms. Arinola Akinyemi
Designation: CEO Digishere Investment Ltd
Nationality: Nigeria
Arinola Akinyemi is the Chief Executive officer, Omar Ventures Limited and DigiSphere Investment Limited and also Founder and President, DigiSphere Centre for Digital Creativity, (DCDC) is a quiet achiever; calm and focused, highly motivated and enthusiastic.She possesses a unique blend of visionary leadership and executive business savvy with competencies to... Read more

Mr. Timilehin Ambali (2017 Winner)

Name: Mr. Timilehin Ambali
Designation: COO, Dotengee Enterprise
Nationality: Nigeria
Timilehin Ambali is the COO of Dotengee a web solution company. He is a geek with many years of experience in IT with core knowledge in network infrastructure/integration (LAN/WLAN), systems administration, graphic design, web development, web optimization and security tools. He is also vast in data/information security... Read more

Mr. Hussein El-Gueretly (2014 Winner)

Name: Mr. Hussein El-Gueretly
Designation: Former CEO ITIDA
Nationality: Egypt
Mr. Hussein El-Gueretly is the former CEO of ITIDA. He is also an active member of the board of directors of National Bank of Egypt and a non-executive board member of Al Ahly Company for Fund Management, an organization that manages some of the largest funds in Egypt. He possesses a proven track record of experience built over 30 years in the areas of management, planning, marketing... Read more

Paul Rowney (2016 Winner)

Name: Paul Rowney
Designation: President, ICT Professional Association of Namibia
Nationality: Namibia
Paul Rowney brings over 30 years of technology experience to the ICT Professionals Association of Namibia. Eight of which were spent as a technology advisor to the United Nations, and most recently as a technology consultant to the MyDigitalBridge Foundation. Paul started his career in the United Kingdom as a mechanical... Read more

Mr. Opeyemi Onifade (2017 Winner)

Name: Mr. Opeyemi Onifade
Designation: CEO, Afenoid Enterprise Limited
Nationality: Nigeria
Mr. Opeyemi Onifade is a technologist with the passion for business development. He currently provides business leadership and execution at Afenoid Enterprise Limited. Afenoid Enterprise offers solutions in business technology optimization, management systems consulting (ISO 27001, 20000, 22301) and competence development programmes in IT Governance and Management... Read more

Prof. Umar G. Danbata (2020 Winner)

Name: Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta
Designation: the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of the Nigerian Communications Commission
Nationality: Nigeria
Umar Garba Danbatta, is a Nigerian author, philanthropist, administrator and professor of electrical, telecommunications engineer. He is the executive vice-chairman and chief executive Officer of Nigerian Communications Commission since November 2015 to April 2020 and was reappointed in July 2020 by confirmation from the Senate house. Prior to his appointment, he has been acting vice-chancellor of Kano State University of Science and Technology since its establishment in 2001 and became acting vice-chairman of Nigerian Communications Commission in August 2014... Read more

Our Partners