The 17th edition of the CIO100 Awards and Symposium,
Africa’s premier technology gathering, is set to take place from November 19 to
21, 2025, at Enashipai Resort & Spa in Naivasha.
The annual event will bring together IT leaders, innovators,
and policymakers from across the continent to discuss how emerging technologies
are transforming business and driving growth in Africa.
Organized by CIO Africa by dx5, the event celebrates
innovation and recognizes companies and individuals championing digital
transformation across the continent.
Ahead of the symposium, dx5 held a teaser session at Sarova
Panafric Hotel in Nairobi, where technology executives reflected on Africa’s
fast-evolving digital landscape.
The session featured a panel discussion with Geoffrey
Gitagia, CIO of the Year 2024 and Group IT Manager at Avenue Healthcare, and
Timothy Laku, Fractional CIO/CTO, among others.
Speaking during the session, dx5 Director Andrew Karanja
said the CIO100 Awards are not just about recognition but also about inspiring
Africa’s digital future.
“This event is not just a celebration; it’s a testament to
the relentless spirit of innovation that drives our continent,” Karanja said.
“By recognizing those at the forefront of integrating
technology with business strategy, we are setting a standard and inspiring a
future where technology is a key part of business success in Africa.”
He added that the event’s success is anchored in
collaboration with media, sponsors, and partners committed to advancing
Africa’s digital transformation.
The symposium will also launch the CIO100 Megatrends Report,
which serves as the analytical backbone of the awards. The report captures
insights from Africa’s digital leaders, highlighting technologies that are
shaping the continent’s future.
“The Megatrends Report shows how African CIOs are setting
their own trends — not just following global ones,” Karanja said.
“They’re designing technology that fits Africa’s challenges
with practical solutions that impact everyday realities.”
According to the 2025 Megatrends Report, cloud computing
continues to lead Africa’s tech evolution, followed by artificial intelligence
(54.8%), data analytics (43.8%), and cybersecurity (43.6%).
Other emerging technologies — including machine learning,
the Internet of Things (IoT), and edge computing — are also gaining traction,
powering automation and real-time decision-making.
The CIO100 Awards spotlight both individual excellence and
organizational innovation. Geoffrey Gitagia, the reigning CIO of the Year
Africa, earned his title for a digital health initiative that reduced patient
waiting times at Avenue Healthcare.
“Our goal was to simplify the onboarding process and improve
how we manage patient data,” Gitagia said.
Past winners include Moses Okundi (Absa Bank), Jaine Mwai
(Standard Chartered Bank), and Kenneth Ogwang’ (Diageo).
The 2025 edition will feature high-level panels,
masterclasses, roundtables, and networking sessions, culminating in a gala
celebrating Africa’s top 100 technology leaders.
Event sponsors include Google Cloud Africa, Nathan Claire
Africa, Paix Data Centres, CloudPlexo, Tenece, Radware, Africa Data Centres,
DownToEarth Technologies, Manage Engine, DataGroup IT, Incentro, Computer
Learning Centre, and DataComms Training.
