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

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

He was the first person in Sudan to use and manage the University of Gezira email server in 1996, before Internet services were introduced in the country. The email service provider served most universities, scientific research centers, and hospitals in Sudan, as it was the first service provider in the nation. This server played a key role in raising awareness about the importance of Internet services in Sudan.

He also trained researchers, students, and university professors on how to use the Internet by organizing workshops, forums, and seminars across Sudan. In 1998, he participated in the Network Training Workshop for Countries in the Early Stages of Internetworking held in Geneva, Switzerland, and became a member of the Internet Society that same year. Read More

Rimaskeb has demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation in software development for the National Communications Authority, delivering high-quality, scalable solutions that drive digital transformation across the organization. Through a strong commitment to excellence, technological advancement, and client satisfaction, the company has played a pivotal role in enhancing operational efficiency and promoting ICT growth within the region. Its impactful contributions continue to set industry standards and support  the organization's evolving digital innovation

He is a dedicated system administrator with over 10 years of experience in managing server environments, optimizing IT infrastructures, and ensuring system reliability. Skilled in virtualization, database management, and technical support to drive organizational efficiency. Adept at problem-solving and cross-functional collaboration to deliver seamless IT operations.

Mr. Kihu Kibe has spent the last 15 years doing what he loves most – using technology to solve real problems for real people across Africa. Building Digital Bridges Across Africa: For over a decade and a half, he has had the privilege of leading ICT service projects worth over €10 million across 15 African countries. From Kenya to South Africa, from West Africa to the Southern regions, he has worked alongside incredible teams to bring reliable telecommunications services to more than 100 million people. Whether it's helping a mother in rural Kenya make a phone call or enabling an entrepreneur in Addis Ababa to make a mobile money transaction, these projects have touched lives in ways that go beyond the technology itself. Read More

Halima Widi Liman is being nominated for the Africa IT Personality Award in recognition of her outstanding leadership in ICT innovation, public sector digitization, and governance transformation within Nigeria’s digital ecosystem. Through her role at NITDA, she has contributed significantly to strengthening transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency using ICT-driven approaches within the internal audit function. Her forward-thinking adoption of emerging technologies, particularly in AI-assisted auditing and digital compliance enhancement, demonstrates her commitment to aligning governance frameworks with modern technology standards.  Halima has consistently pursued excellence through continuous professional development, earning multiple certifications in Quality Management Systems, Information Security Management, Responsible AI, and Generative AI-driven solutions. These achievements reflect not only technical competence but also a strong commitment to ethical technology adoption and sustainable digital transformation. Read More

Hammou Brahim Ouaissa is the co-founder and CEO of TiniTec, an Algerian technology company empowering Africa’s digital transformation through innovative software solutions. Under his leadership, TiniTec has developed impactful tools such as IKRA, an e-learning and digital education platform designed to make quality learning accessible across Algeria and beyond. Hammou’s vision bridges technology and social progress — creating opportunities, inspiring young talent, and contributing to Africa’s economic development through sustainable digital innovation.

Mr. Abdul-Hakeem Bolade Dirisu Ajijola (widely known as AhA) is a globally respected cybersecurity strategist whose influence spans Africa and the wider Global South. Ranked #1 Global Cybersecurity Influencer (IFSEC, 2020), Mr. Ajijola has advised four Nigerian National Security Advisers and played a central role in shaping national, regional, and international digital security frameworks. His education in Europe, Africa, and North America underpins his global outlook.

Mr. Ajijola is currently Chair of the African Union Cyber Security Expert Group, a co-author of the African Digital Compact (2024) that fed into the UN Global Digital Compact, and a co-drafter of the African Continental Cybersecurity Strategy (2026–2030). Through his interventions at the UN Open-Ended Working Group and the UN Ad Hoc Committee on Cybercrime, he has influenced international norms on responsible state behaviour in cyberspace. Read More

Amged B. Shwehdy has been at the forefront of ICT policy and governance reform in Libya, shaping national discussions on digital transformation, data protection, and Internet governance. As founder of ISOC Libya and a driving force behind the Libya Internet Governance Forum, he has advanced inclusive digital policies that foster innovation, job creation, and a stronger ICT ecosystem across the region.

He is an expert in Digital Transformation, specializing in research and policy with a focus on governance and innovation. With eight years of experience, he has been leading initiatives related to the Internet, innovation, and policy, contributing to the promotion of digital citizenship and the advancement of digital transition. Amged believes in the transformative power of technology to connect people, stimulate economic growth, and support sustainable global development. Amged combines his academic background with extensive experience collaborating with local and international stakeholders. Read More

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

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

He was the first person in Sudan to use and manage the University of Gezira email server in 1996, before Internet services were introduced in the country. The email service provider served most universities, scientific research centers, and hospitals in Sudan, as it was the first service provider in the nation. This server played a key role in raising awareness about the importance of Internet services in Sudan.

He also trained researchers, students, and university professors on how to use the Internet by organizing workshops, forums, and seminars across Sudan. In 1998, he participated in the Network Training Workshop for Countries in the Early Stages of Internetworking held in Geneva, Switzerland, and became a member of the Internet Society that same year. Read More

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.

Emmanuel Ahaiwe Redefines DevOps With AI and MLOps  Amid the rise in artificial intelligence integration into enterprise systems and the growing demand for resilient financial technologies, a Nigerian researcher and DevOps engineer, Emmanuel Ahaiwe, is quietly reshaping how businesses approach automation, security, and infrastructure at scale.   With an MSc in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning from the University of Portsmouth, Ahaiwe is at the cutting edge of marrying MLOps with DevOps, a combination that is increasingly redefining fintech, Internet Service Providers, and global cloud-native industries.  As Lead DevOps Engineer at a UK-based broadband provider, Ahaiwe has overseen the rebuilding of a critical DevOps team after a sweeping company-wide restructuring.

His technical imprint is already visible in the creation of an AI automation platform for QGIS, the firm’s Geographic Information System, which maps broadband delivery coverage across the United Kingdom. Read More

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

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 Hazem Eltawab  is the Founder and CEO of ReNile, a dynamic startup at the forefront of IoT systems for Agriculture and Aquaponics applications, driving innovation in the agri-tech sector. Furthermore, he is proud to serve as a Business Consultant for the Electronics Factory, a crucial entity within the esteemed Arab Organization for Industrialization. In this capacity, he contributes his expertise to enhance the electronics manufacturing landscape. His journey has also led him to excel as a Business & Management Consultant at Nexel Partners. In this role, he played a pivotal part in propelling digital transformation initiatives for diverse clients across the MENA region.

Education has always been a cornerstone of his journey. He has had the privilege of imparting knowledge as an Academic Teacher at Zewail City for Science and Technology. Read More

Hammou Brahim Ouaissa is the co-founder and CEO of TiniTec, an Algerian technology company empowering Africa’s digital transformation through innovative software solutions. Under his leadership, TiniTec has developed impactful tools such as IKRA, an e-learning and digital education platform designed to make quality learning accessible across Algeria and beyond. Hammou’s vision bridges technology and social progress — creating opportunities, inspiring young talent, and contributing to Africa’s economic development through sustainable digital innovation.

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.

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

He was the first person in Sudan to use and manage the University of Gezira email server in 1996, before Internet services were introduced in the country. The email service provider served most universities, scientific research centers, and hospitals in Sudan, as it was the first service provider in the nation. This server played a key role in raising awareness about the importance of Internet services in Sudan.

He also trained researchers, students, and university professors on how to use the Internet by organizing workshops, forums, and seminars across Sudan. In 1998, he participated in the Network Training Workshop for Countries in the Early Stages of Internetworking held in Geneva, Switzerland, and became a member of the Internet Society that same year. Read More

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

Amged B. Shwehdy has been at the forefront of ICT policy and governance reform in Libya, shaping national discussions on digital transformation, data protection, and Internet governance. As founder of ISOC Libya and a driving force behind the Libya Internet Governance Forum, he has advanced inclusive digital policies that foster innovation, job creation, and a stronger ICT ecosystem across the region.

He is an expert in Digital Transformation, specializing in research and policy with a focus on governance and innovation. With eight years of experience, he has been leading initiatives related to the Internet, innovation, and policy, contributing to the promotion of digital citizenship and the advancement of digital transition. Amged believes in the transformative power of technology to connect people, stimulate economic growth, and support sustainable global development. Amged combines his academic background with extensive experience collaborating with local and international stakeholders. Read More

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