Harry has 25 years of experience in the tech industry. He's the founder and the Executive Director of Kenya-founded DEMO Africa, a launchpad for emerging technologies and trends on the continent. He's also the Co-founder and Director of the African eDevelopment Resource Centre; Co-founder and Director of the Events Management Solutions.

Francis Mwangi has over 15 years experience working as the CIO for various organisations across different sectors and Consulting for various companies in both the public and private sectors in the area of information security and data privacy. He is currently the Group Head of IT Security & Infrastructure at Platcorp Holdings Ltd. He also sits on the advisory board of Dx5 (Formerly CIO East Africa). In addition to this, He is a part-time lecturer in the School of Information Systems and Technology at USIU-Africa.

Chad S. Pollock is Vice President & General Manager for Visa East Africa, based in Nairobi, Kenya. In his role, Chad leads the East Africa team to drive core business growth in 7 markets across the region including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Rwanda. He is responsible for the overall strategy in the region, including building long-term relationships with clients, regulators, and other key stakeholders. Prior to his current role, he served as Vice President & Head of Global Client Strategy & Operations, where he successfully spearheaded the development of business analytics and commercial operations for Visa’s largest international clients. He is passionate about technology and democratizing/digitalizing access to Financial Services in East Africa and the African Continent. Mr. Pollock holds a B.S. in Systems Engineering from the United States Naval Academy and an M.S. in Engineering Management from The Catholic University of America.

Lawi Njeru is a seasoned technologist with over 20 years of experience, primarily in fintech. He has led complex banking system implementations and integrations across both retail and central banks in Africa. Lawi also brings deep expertise in data and analytics and is an AWS Certified Architect. He is the CEO of Sensys, a Nairobi-based technology company delivering tailored software solutions, system integration, and strategic IT support to institutions across the continent.

Wambui Mbesa has taken on the role of CEO for the new East Africa subsidiary of Relational, an IT solutions and services company based in Athens, Greece. Relational FS is renowned for designing and delivering IT solutions primarily to the financial services sector, including banks, Saccos, and MFIs. Under her leadership, Relational is at the forefront of innovation. She holds an MBA in Strategic Management, a PGD in Computer Science, and a B.Ed. in Business and Economics. With over two decades of experience as a technology industry executive and entrepreneur, she has consistently garnered recognition for her visionary leadership and award-winning performance. Notable accolades include inclusion among CIO East Africa's Top 45 Women in Technology (2023), receipt of the Women in STEM Award from The Women on Boards Network (WOBN) Awards (2023), acknowledgment as a top female leader in ICT by CIO East Africa (2020) and recognition as a value creator in emerging and frontier markets by IFC Trailblazers (2019).

Dr. Bright Gameli Mawudor is a leading expert in Cyber Security and Blockchain Intelligence, shaping Africa’s digital landscape. As the Regional Training Lead for Crystal Intelligence, he has played pivotal roles in advancing security infrastructure across the continent. He also founded Africahackon, a Cyber Security collective focused on capacity building. Dr. Mawudor holds a PhD in Cyber Security and serves on prestigious advisory boards, including EC-Council's CTIA, Moringa school and Ushahidi. With over a decade of experience, he is a recognized speaker at 340+ tech conferences, known for his expertise in Cyber Security Strategy, Resilience, and Blockchain Intelligence. His work has earned him recognition, including Tribe of Hackers: Blue Team 2020 and Top 40 Under 40 in Kenya. He has held roles in organizations like Dimension Data/NTT, Cellulant, and Ushahidi, successfully implementing IT security strategies to protect critical business environments.

Eric leads the Cybersecurity organization at KCB Bank Group, which operates in six East African countries. He is responsible for the cybersecurity vision, strategic development, implementation, maintenance, and enhancement of the group's Cybersecurity program. This program's mandate is to enhance KCB’s digital trust by embedding industry-leading cybersecurity best practices in Cyber Governance, Cyber Defense, Cybersecurity Assurance, Enterprise Security Architecture, and Security Operations. Eric brings extensive senior management experience in cybersecurity strategy and program formulation, security systems and portfolio management, resource planning, recruitment, and fostering a Cyber Risk aware culture. As a transformative and servant leader, he seeks to bring out the best in teams, create high-performance cultures, and position Cybersecurity as a key business enabler and competitive advantage. Previously, Eric offered Information Security advisory services to clients across six African countries, conducting Enterprise Security assessments for large regional organizations. He has also provided these services under the Enterprise Architecture umbrella, identifying current states and co-developing roadmaps to achieve future states of Information Security organizations.

Robin is the Business Development Manager at Servercore in Kenya with over 5 years of experience in cloud-based services and infrastructure sales. He specializes in understanding client needs and delivering tailored solutions, with a proven track record of managing complex cloud projects and guiding clients through seamless cloud adoption. Robin is a certified Oracle Cloud Infrastructure and AI professional.

Kevin Kariuki is an accomplished professional with over 15 years of experience in the tech industry, specializing in IT infrastructure, security, and cloud technologies. As the Tech-Sales Expert for East Africa in the Financial Services industry at Relational, Kevin demonstrates expertise in navigating the intersection of technology, business, and finance within the East African region.

A Service Delivery Ambassador with over 15 years’ experience managing multi-faceted projects that included but not limited to improvements, upgrades , new systems, within expansive channels such as Mobile, Internet, Card Systems .Currently the CIO Retail Banking at NCBA Bank, tasked with driving IT Retail Banking strategies forward.

Innovative and Adaptive Leader with a keen eye on bringing the best out of persons around me to deliver to their capacity and beyond. Titles don't entice me but leading by example. Vast Experience as a CIO | CTO with expertise in Cyber security and Zero Trust Methodology. Project, Product Management life cycle. Currently exploring and moving into Digital Transformation. I have been in the banking sector for the last 18 plus years across the East African landscape.

As a dynamic Information & Cybersecurity Leader, I specialize in aligning enterprise security with business growth across diverse industries, from banking and telecoms to fintech and regulatory bodies. With over 7 years of global experience, I bring a sharp eye for compliance, a proactive mindset for risk and a proven ability to transform complex frameworks like ISO 27001, PCI DSS, SOC 2 and GDPR into real-world resilience. I've successfully led high-impact GRC programs in over 10 countries including Kenya, Zambia, Uganda, UK and Canada; delivering regulatory assurance, enhancing security posture and driving stakeholder confidence at all levels. I’m passionate about shaping future-ready, business-aligned cybersecurity strategies that are practical, scalable and sustainable.

Experienced Cybersecurity Engineer with 8 years of impactful leadership and technical expertise. Proven track record in managing IT security strategies, conducting vulnerability assessments, and leading cross-functional teams to enhance overall security posture. Skilled in penetration testing, threat intelligence, and incident response, with a demonstrated ability to drive strategic planning and thought leadership. Recognized for fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement, resulting in outstanding team performance and aligning products with evolving customer needs. Adept at developing comprehensive cybersecurity training programs and spearheading initiatives to raise awareness and enhance digital security. Ready to leverage extensive experience to drive excellence in cybersecurity engineering.

Michael a thought leader in the technology industry with a decade of experience. The co-founder and CEO of Everse Technology Africa, an AI Strat-up focused on AI, data protection and privacy. His professional experience includes serving as the CTO of bluBeetle AI. Prior to bluBeetle he served as CTO of Solv Kenya, a B2B marketplace owned by SC UK Holdings Ltd. Prior to Solv, Michael was the Head of Information Technology and Innovation at TripleOKLaw. Michael has an impressive track record in the industry, having risen from a management trainee at M Oriental Bank to become the Head of Information Technology and later, the Chief Information Security Officer. In 2019, he was awarded the Business Daily Top 40 under 40 Men award for his role in driving digital transformation within the legal industry, A member of the Technical Working Group on Development of Media Guidelines on the Use of Artificial Intelligence & Social Media by the Media Council of Kenya An advocate for mental health in the workplace, Michael is also the host of the podcast Mind and Machine Africa. A Co-founder of the Non-Profit Nia za Akili Zetu Foundation, working on AI in Africa. He sits on several advisory boards

Samuel Ruugia is a versatile Data Engineer and Big Data Analyst with expertise in AI and machine learning development, business intelligence, and project management. He is proficient in Python, Qlik Sense, Oracle Business Analytics, SAP-BOBI, Tableau, and business process automation. As an Oracle and MSSQL Certified Database Administrator and Oracle-EBS applications support administrator, Samuel is skilled in database performance tuning, security management, and backup and recovery management to ensure business continuity and high availability. Samuel has successfully managed several complex, high-profile IT, financial, and reinsurance projects. He is also experienced in SICS P&C and LIFE technical administration. With strong leadership, communication, interpersonal, emotional intelligence, and organizational skills, Samuel is an asset to any team, driving projects to successful completion while fostering collaboration and innovation.

Hi, I’m Miquel Wakubwa. I am a Tech and Business enthusiast with a passion for learning. My focus is digital technology; it's adoption, implications and role in transforming the nature of business. This has helped me gain immense knowledge and experience in banking, digital lending, product management, systems development, marketing and entrepreneurship. I wear many hats: As a Tech product manager (and project manager), I love pitching and positioning new ideas for product and feature development. This entails identifying customers’ needs and the larger business objectives that a product of feature will fulfill, articulate what success looks like for a product and rally the teams involved to turn that vision into a reality. As a marketing manager, I enjoy to plan and oversee many different activities including go-to-market launches, advertising, email campaigns, events and social media. This also involves coming up with marketing programs and campaigns, collaborate cross-functionally and report on marketing metrics. 🎨 As a social media content creator, I maximize Instagram, TikTok and YouTube to create content that entertains, educate and inspire. This helps me promote brands and get connected to different people in different sectors and industries. Under Influencer campaigns, I generate strategic content to meet short and long-term business goals, create and schedule posts, and provide copywriting, photography, videography, and more to curate a feed that increases engagement and converts followers into paying customers. I love to work with brands in the lifestyle, personal development, finance and career spaces so if that is you, feel free to message me! 🗣 As a speaker, I participate in various workshops and seminars about career development, financial literacy, wealth creation, and personal branding at events and on podcasts. To book me for paid speaking opportunities, feel free to message me!

Eric Wahu is the General Manager, Kenya at Byon8, a Swedish digital health company pioneering tech-driven healthcare solutions across Africa. With a strong foundation in insurance, spanning underwriting, claims processing, and relationship management. Eric brings a rare blend of operational expertise and digital innovation to the evolving InsureTech landscape. At Byon8, he spearheads strategic partnerships with health insurance underwriters to leverage digital platforms that enhance claims efficiency, care navigation, and real-time engagement between providers and policyholders. His focus is on building tech-enabled ecosystems that deliver measurable value, streamline access, and bridge data insights with predictive models to inform smarter, more agile healthcare decisions. Eric is passionate about the intersection of insurance, healthtech, and consumer behavior, and is driving conversations around how African insurers can reimagine value creation through innovation.

Jeremiah has over 18 years’ combined experience in management of cloud infrastructure, physical and virtual networks, mobile & web applications, cybersecurity, tech-platform partnerships, ICT consultancy, budgeting and strategy formulation. He has a Degree in IT with professional certifications in Data Science, Analytics and Digital Assets. He has won various technology awards from Global Business Outlook – UK, CIO East Africa and Think Business Awards. He is currently playing the role of a Co-founder, Director & Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Etica Capital Limited, a licensed Fund Manager by the Capital Markets Authority in Kenya to offer investments on behalf of clients from as low as KES 100/= to spur financial inclusion of the retail mass market with a seamless self-onboarding process and real-time investments monitoring via mobile app (Android/iOS) or Web Portal.cloud migration of entire company infrastructure over a weekend. He has won various technology awards from Global Business Outlook – UK, CIO East Africa and Think Business Awards.

An experienced operational leader, a team builder, tried and tested skilled professional in Information Systems Security. He has several years’ experience both in Sr. leadership roles as well as technical skills in Enterprise Network security, Security Incident Management, Enterprise Security Architecture, Log and Event management and Project Management. Currently the Chief Operating officer at Serianu Limited. I oversees teams of incident responders, security analysts, system security policy and compliance officers and security engineers. I am responsible for and ensures an innovative development environment, the implementation and delivery of the Security services to Serianu clients. Prior to joining Serianu, I served as the Chief Information Security officer of Airtel Africa in charge of security operations in the 17 African countries where Airtel Operated. I lead all operational and strategic aspects of Information security for the group and provided advice to the Executive management on systems security and cyber threats to the organization. I hold various industry recognized professional certifications including Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Firewall expect and Incident handler (GCFW, GCIH). A Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice with a concentration in High Tech Crime investigations from University of George Washington in Washington DC.

Risk management is like brakes on a racing car. You have the best brakes on the fastest car, the reason not being to make you stop, but to make you go faster. The better the brakes, the faster you will be comfortable to go! The better the risk management, the deeper into the ocean an organization will be able to go! I do design brakes for organizations. My specialties are Risk management, Governance, Strategy, and Sustainability.

Collyns is an experienced leader in Digital native solutions with strong background in the banking industry both locally and regionally –Stanbic Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, and now NCBA Bank. Skilled in strategy leadership, platform and product development, digital finance with experience in organizational transformation while managing large engineering, software development and commercialization teams. He has over 12 years’ experience in Tech-enabled Financial Service, passionate about driving transformation and growth in the digital banking landscape, leveraging on strategic partnership with tech firms and FinTech's. Collyns leads a team of client-centric solutions on Payments and collections, Lending, Investment and Bancassurance. Considered as newbie-in-Tech, Collyns is a graduate of Finance, currently pursing Msc in Big Data technology. He is a certified Practitioner of Human – Centered Design, Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO) and Certified Scrum Master (CSM). His guiding principle is to unlock the power of technology to deliver a sustainable future not just for the organization success but also for the role it plays in transforming lives in developing world more specifically in Africa.

I am a Digital payments specialist with over ten years of experience in the design and implementation of innovative financial sector strategies and solutions for the unbanked and underserved populations with a focus on digitizing government payments. Working at the intersection of finance and technology, I hope to contribute to the design and deployment of inclusive payment systems which I believe will significantly contribute to financial inclusion and economic opportunities for all but especially for the excluded communities. It will also contribute to the growth and desired impact in real economy sectors like health, education, trade and agriculture at both policy and market level. Over the last ten years, I have worked with key stakeholder in the Kenya market like the National Treasury ( NT), Central Bank of Kenya ( CBK), Ministry of Labour and Social Protection ( ML&SP), Kenya Bankers Association(KBA), and financial services providers towards this goal. My areas of expertise and interests are in Digital payments, project management, digital identity, social protection payments/cash transfers, strategy development, stakeholder management, contract management as well as gender and youth issues within digital financial services.

Harvey Sijenyi is a versatile and accomplished cybersecurity professional with a strong focus on leveraging AI to enhance digital security landscapes. He is the founder of Cyber Space Consultancy, a firm dedicated to delivering cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions and insights. Harvey’s expertise spans key areas such as AI-driven security monitoring, malware analysis, penetration testing, and compliance with frameworks like NIST, ISO 27001, GDPR, and HIPAA. Throughout his career, Harvey has demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation. He has successfully developed an AI-based security monitoring model, built a robust malware analysis lab, and created an AI agent to improve security operations. Harvey's extensive technical skill set includes proficiency in tools like Wazuh, Grafana, Prometheus, and Xcitium, as well as advanced capabilities in EDR/XDR monitoring, log management, and system forensics. A certified CISA, CISM, CEH, and DPO, Harvey has worked as the Cybersecurity Officer at Avenue Healthcare, where he implemented effective risk mitigation strategies and trained over 1,700 employees on cybersecurity awareness. He is also an experienced public speaker and educator, passionate about bridging the gap between emerging technologies like AI and practical cybersecurity applications. Harvey has been recognized as one of Kenya's Top 40 Under 40 Male Personalities.

Dr. Livingstone Makori is an award-winning professional in the Financial Services industry Recognized as the Social Impact Award Winner (2023), Business Leader of the Year (2024) , Founder of the Year in Career Development (2025) and honoured with a PhD in Career Development Honoris Causa. Dr. Livingstone Makori has over a decade of experience spanning through Banking, Insurance, Bancassurance and Business development. As a PhD Scholar in Leadership and Governance, Dr.Livingstone Makori combines academic excellence with practical expertise.I hold an MBA and a BCOM specializing in Risk Management and Insurance. Additionally, he is a Certified Career Analyst, Life Purpose Coach, Certified Digital Marketer, and Career Coach, with expertise spanning coaching, Talent Management, Leadership, People Management, Mentorship, and team leadership. Currently serving as Head ,Bancassurance Sales and Business Development at KCB Bank Group ,I have served as Head of Digital Channels and Bancassurance ,Jubilee Health Insurance among other roles .

Angela Mwirigi is a seasoned leader in Digital Financial Services, currently serving as Director at KCB Group. She is instrumental in driving the bank’s digital product strategy and cultivating strategic partnerships across the banking and FinTech sectors. Her focus lies in expanding payment ecosystems and embedding strong governance in financial innovations. With over 20 years of experience in branding, sales, and distribution, Mwirigi has led numerous award-winning campaigns and innovations across leading organizations, including KCB Group, EABL, Haco Tiger Brands, and Henkel E.A. Dusseldorf. Beyond her corporate roles, she has contributed significantly to industry governance and development, having served on the Advertising Standards Board of Kenya, the board of the Marketing Society of Kenya, and as a board member of the KCB Foundation. She holds a Senior Executive Program – Africa Certificate from Harvard Business School, an MBA in Strategy from the United States International University, and a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from the University of Nairobi

Sourav Gopal Jha is the Vice President, Sales – Sub-Saharan Africa at Intellect Design Arena, a global leader in financial technology for banking, insurance, and capital markets. With over 15 years of experience driving digital transformation across Africa, Sourav leads strategic engagements with Central Banks, Commercial Banks, and financial institutions, helping them modernize core systems, launch digital-first experiences, and embrace AI-driven solutions. Passionate about sustainable growth and innovation, he works closely with C-suite leaders to align technology with business outcomes. Sourav is a regular speaker at industry forums and a trusted advisor on the future of banking in Africa

With over two decades of experience in digital banking and financial technology, Harris is a seasoned E-banking professional currently serving as Head of Business Services & Solutions (Engineering) at KCB Bank Group. He has led transformative initiatives across digital channels, e-commerce, and online banking—ensuring seamless service delivery and innovative tech integration at one of Africa’s top financial institutions. He brings deep expertise in mobile and internet banking, designing secure, scalable, and customer-centric digital solutions. Known for his detail-oriented approach and strategic mindset, he has successfully driven key digital transformation projects that align technology with business goals. A passionate self-starter and team leader, he remains committed to leveraging technology for growth, efficiency, and customer value. Specialties: E-banking, Digital Channels, Fintech Strategy, E-commerce, Business-IT Alignment, Digital Transformation, Software Development.

I have developed expertise and experience in these areas that excite me; Product Development and management, Business Development Management, Creative thinking, Planning and organization, Collaborative working, and Customer Relationship Management. In line with this, my specific goal is to work with "individuals" OR "startups" OR "growing" OR "established" organizations that do good things to develop their brands so that they get to continue changing our world for the better.

A passionate entrepreneur who prides herself in creating purposeful solutions that are simple and affordable, guided by data and supported by technology.

Henry Abea is a self-directed and driven technology professional with comprehensive accomplishments in leading ICT operations, infrastructure management, data and information security, resource mobilization, disaster recovery, and cross-functional team management to ensure success and achieve organizational goals. Known as an analytical and innovative thinker and a strong, influential communicator, he has consistently demonstrated success in developing and seamlessly executing IT strategies in various financial organizations, notably SACCOs. Henry has proven experience in planning and implementing ICT projects through meticulous planning to ensure success within all constraints. His expertise includes managing multi-million-dollar budgets and overseeing ERP implementations in three deposit-taking SACCOs with a cumulative membership of over 50,000 spread across Kenya's 47 counties. He has spearheaded seamless system changeovers, resulting in tremendous service delivery improvements across the board. With substantial experience in financial system migrations and digital financial services, Henry has worked extensively with digital products. He has overseen numerous successful integrations with third-party vendors to improve services and ensure a superior customer experience. Additionally, he has been instrumental in drawing up and reviewing technical and functional requirements for organizations in readiness for system changeovers. A recipient of numerous organizational accolades, Henry has been given various leadership positions—both elected and appointed—in various committees within and outside the organization due to his excellent team-leading abilities and outstanding performance.

Ms. Becky Abraham is a leader with 10+ Years of experience in the field of business intelligence and data analytics. Becky has garnered an extensive track record in developing effective, data-driven solutions working with multinational companies across Africa and the USA, focusing on Business Intelligence and Data Analytics-driven Innovative solutions. Throughout her career, she has made significant contributions by working closely with business executives and technical teams to deliver insights, drive decision-making, and facilitate business process re-engineering—all while promoting the value of leveraging data to maximize business value. Through her work, Ms. Becky has successfully bridged the gap between business and technology by offering strategic planning, big data solutions architecture, business development leadership, and digital data transformation advisory. She has consistently demonstrated a commitment to formulate strong relationships with business partners, promoting their ability to achieve impactful results. She is currently serving as the VP of Technology and Analytics at Pathways Technologies LTD, she is among the Top 40 under-40 women business leaders in Kenya. Her insightful guidance has undoubtedly armed countless individuals and organizations with the tools they need to adapt, thrive, and contribute to progress on a global scale.

With over ten years of experience in the ICT sector, I am a passionate and visionary leader who strives to leverage technology to create value and impact for businesses and communities. As the ICT and Business Innovations Manager at Safaricom Sacco LTD, I oversaw the strategic direction and execution of ICT projects and initiatives that supported the growth and transformation of the organization. My core competencies include system integrations, migrations, ERP implementation, and new product rollout. I have successfully project managed crucial initiatives involving the transition of programs to new platforms and the merger of disparate systems from acquired client companies, such as the ACEteK Web Order System, Office 365, ASIM integrated sales and stock management solution, and SAP B1. I am also an Oracle Certified Associate and Professional, with a proven track record of delivering high-quality solutions using Oracle technologies and tools. I am always eager to learn new skills and explore new opportunities that challenge and inspire me to innovate and excel.

Hello, 𝐈 𝐚𝐦 𝐓𝐨𝐧𝐲 𝐌𝐮𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐨. A seasoned 𝐈𝐂𝐓 𝐃𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 with 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 of experience driving 𝐝𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐈𝐓 𝐠𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞, 𝐜𝐲𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 and 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 across banking, finance and emerging markets. Adept at spearheading large-scale system integrations, cloud computing initiatives and ERP implementations, enhancing operational efficiency and driving digital adoption. Proven expertise in managing remote and hybrid teams, implementing virtual collaboration tools and optimizing IT infrastructure for seamless business continuity.

My name is Shiku Njoroge, and I am honored to serve as your moderator for this impactful session focused on technology in SACCOs—a space that is rapidly evolving and calling for bold, intentional innovation. I serve as the Founder and Strategy Director of BoldNex Technologies—the first and only women-led IT company of its kind globally. Our mission is to not only deliver transformative technology solutions, but to reimagine leadership, innovation, and inclusion in the digital space. As we explore the future of SACCOs in the digital era, I invite you to lean into the conversations with both technical curiosity and strategic foresight. Together, we can shape a sector that is resilient, inclusive, and ready for tomorrow.

I don’t just work in tech. I build systems that give people a future. From running fiber through rural villages to launching digital credit platforms, I’ve spent the last 10+ years turning complex problems into practical, people-first solutions — across banking, fintech, connectivity, and grassroots digital infrastructure. I’ve led national core banking upgrades, built internet from scratch in underserved towns, designed fintech platforms for SACCOs, SMEs, and informal sectors. And I’ve done it all with a single north star: Africa deserves better

Fidelis Muia is a veteran in banking operations and payments technology with over 25 years of experience. He's renowned for driving transformative changes through innovative payment systems, specializing in the development and implementation of critical infrastructures. As a sought-after speaker, Fidelis shares his expertise in financial sector transformation, inspiring others with his strategic vision and commitment to excellence.

Steering the SACCO Technical department, my leadership focuses on driving technology innovations that align with organisational strategy and enhance service for over 80,000 members. With a robust IT management and solutions architecture background, I oversee IT operations, champion strategic projects, and ensure seamless technological integration across the institution. Skilled in Solutions Architecture, technical project management, and application deployment, I uphold IT security as a cornerstone of our operations. My commitment lies in fostering a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration, aiming to empower our team to deliver excellence and integrity in problem-solving.

Agnes Wambui is a seasoned cybersecurity professional with over a decade of experience in the ICT industry, currently serving as the SalesTeam Leader for Fortinet, overseeing the Banking, Financial Services, Insurance (BFSI) and Telecommunications sectors in Kenya. She plays a pivotal role in driving cybersecurity transformation for critical institutions, helping them secure their digital infrastructures amidst evolving threat landscapes. Agnes brings deep insights into regulatory compliance, threat intelligence, and resilience-building strategies tailored for East Africa’s financial and telecom ecosystems. At the forefront of enabling secure digital innovation, she partners with C-level executives and IT leaders to design and implement cybersecurity frameworks that align with business goals. Agnes is passionate about empowering organizations with the tools and knowledge to navigate cyber risk confidently. She is a respected voice in the regional cybersecurity space and a trusted advisor to some of Kenya’s leading enterprises.

Erick Kathurima is a highly experienced and results-driven ICT Manager with over 10 years of expertise in leading IT infrastructure, digital transformation, and strategic technology initiatives. Proven track record in optimizing IT operations, enhancing cybersecurity, and aligning technology solutions with business objectives. Adept at leading cross-functional teams, aligning technology with business objectives, and ensuring secure, reliable, and cost-effective ICT operations. Strong background in digital transformation, enterprise systems, cybersecurity, and ICT governance, with a proven record of delivering innovative solutions that enhance organizational performance. Am a holder of Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, with certification of CISSP, PMP, and CCNP.

Kevin Korir is in charge of East Africa for Vula.vc. Using AI, Vula automatically matches SMEs to funding opportunities in 14 countries in Africa, shortening the time it takes for debt, grants and equity funders to deploy their capital. Kevin Korir has a technical background in fintech, formerly being the CTO of Jackfruit Finance and as a software entrepreneur building lending products. He has also had notable speaking engagements such as the Graca Machel Trust Summit in Johannesburg, the Africa Philanthropy Conference in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and as a moderator at the MIT currency hedging conference.

Timothy Laku is a proven CIO/CTO with over 20 years of expertise in leading large-scale technology modernization initiatives that accelerate growth and foster innovation. With a career spanning both the private and nonprofit sectors, Timothy has successfully delivered more than 100 high-impact technology projects, transforming the operational landscape of organizations across Africa and beyond.

Chandrika Rao is COO of Nuru Solutions, an agtech startup using data-driven solutions to expand insurance and credit access for smallholder farmers in East Africa using predictive modeling. With a background in AI applications in business strategy and innovative cross-sector partnerships, she bridges technology and impact—designing scalable systems that connect global stakeholders, financial institutions, and data to drive resilience. Her career has turned insights into action; she has shaped strategy, scalability, and impact sustainability for NGOs and start-ups across sectors, from women’s economic empowerment to FGM and community-based behavioral health programming. She now focuses on making financial tools more equitable and accessible for underserved communities.