In this episode of the Pure Digital Passion Podcast, on the 2nd December 2024, I had the privilege of representing Dotsavvy on a distinguished panel discussion titled “I Like My Coffee Black: Trade Today and Trade Tomorrow – The Realities” during the recent Africa Trade Development Forum (ATDF) in Kigali, Rwanda.

In this episode of the Pure Digital Passion Podcast, I sit down with Ben Roberts, one of Kenya's and Africa’s most influential technology and digital infrastructure leaders, to explore his journey and insights on technology, innovation, and education.

We start by uncovering Ben’s early years in the UK, where access to a physics lab and home computers sparked his passion for technology. He shares how these formative experiences shaped his decision to study physics at the University of Bristol and ultimately led to a career in telecommunications.

Ben reflects on his pivotal role at Liquid Telecom, where he spearheaded the transition from satellite to fiber connectivity across Kenya and Africa. From navigating challenges like elephants trampling cables to finding innovative ways to protect infrastructure, Ben shares fascinating anecdotes about building Africa’s digital backbone.

A major highlight of our conversation is Ben’s work in STEM education. As the Board Chair of Young Scientists Kenya, he’s driving initiatives to connect schools to the internet and empower students to apply STEM concepts to solve real-world problems.

We also discuss Ben’s new ventures: Nova Space, which leverages virtual reality to enhance technical education, and Lipagas, a pay-as-you-go LPG startup tackling clean energy challenges in Kenya.

Finally, Ben shares his vision for the future of Kenya's and Africa’s technology landscape, from green energy and AI hubs to the importance of investing in digital infrastructure and policies.

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction

3:00 Early years in the UK

10:00 Transition to Africa and Liquid Telecom

20:00 Building Africa’s digital backbone

28:00 Passion for STEM education

35:00 New ventures: Nova Space and Lipagas

45:00 Vision for Africa’s tech future

50:00 Advice for young innovators

This episode is packed with insights for anyone passionate about technology, education, and Africa’s growth.

Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes of the Pure Digital Passion Podcast!

In this episode of the Pure Digital Passion Podcast, I sit down with Ben Roberts, a transformative leader in Africa’s digital evolution. Join us as we explore his incredible journey—from experimenting in UK physics labs to building Liquid Telecom’s groundbreaking fiber network across Africa.

We discuss:

Ben’s early fascination with technology and his career path into telecommunications.

The challenges and triumphs of rolling out fiber networks across Africa, including unique cultural and logistical hurdles.

His passion for STEM education and his work with Young Scientists Kenya.

His entrepreneurial ventures, Nova Space and Lipagas, and how they’re solving real-world problems in education and clean energy.

Ben’s vision for Kenya’s and Africa’s future in green energy, AI, and inclusive digital growth.

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction

3:00 Early years in the UK

10:00 Transition to Kenya and Africa with Liquid Telecom

20:00 Challenges in building Africa’s digital backbone

28:00 STEM education and Young Scientists Kenya

35:00 Nova Space and Lipagas: Solving Kenya's and Africa’s challenges

45:00 Vision for Kenya's and Africa’s technology landscape

50:00 Closing thoughts and advice

This episode is packed with insights for anyone passionate about technology, education, as well as Kenya's and Africa’s growth from a digital transformation perspective.

Last week, I had the privilege of attending the Digital Hubs Strategy Conference in Kakamega County, where Kenya’s ambitious Digital Superhighway initiative took center stage. The event marked the launch of two digital hubs at Kakamega County Polytechnic and St. Paul’s Shianda County Polytechnic, key milestones in Kenya’s journey to bridge the digital divide.

This transformative effort is driven by a collaborative partnership between the Ministry of ICT and Digital Economy, Konza Technopolis, the Communications Authority of Kenya, and Huawei Kenya, among others. These digital hubs are more than access points—they are empowering communities through digital education, entrepreneurship, and opportunities for economic growth.

Throughout the day, I engaged with key stakeholders, including educators, students, and policymakers, to understand the real impact of these hubs. Here are some highlights:

Adam Lane from Huawei Kenya shared how Huawei’s contributions include high-speed broadband connectivity, ICT training, and state-of-the-art digital tools to transform institutions into modern learning hubs.

Carolyn Kamete, Principal at Kakamega County Polytechnic, explained how their hub has tripled student enrollment, empowered youth and women, and created global linkages for trainees.

Julia Opoti, Principal at St. Paul’s Shianda County Polytechnic, emphasized how digital resources have equipped trainees with critical ICT skills and increased their employability.

Students like Sharon Nekesa and Silas Mulama shared inspiring stories of earning income online through digital platforms facilitated by the hubs.

Evans Akoko, Centre Manager, highlighted how tailored training programs are creating career pathways for both trainees and community members.

Hon. Victoria Zillah, MCA Kakamega County, discussed how these hubs have not only boosted enrollment but also attracted partnerships and resources that enhance their overall impact.

The success of this initiative reflects the power of collaboration between the government, private sector, and academia. Together, they are creating ecosystems that provide the tools and skills needed to thrive in today’s digital economy.

On Wednesday, December 11, 2024, I had the distinct honor of being the Chief Guest at the inaugural Teja Talks Speaker Series hosted at Teja Spaces on Riverside Drive in Nairobi, Kenya. This event, organized in partnership with The Kenyan Wallstreet and Johnnie Walker, brought together a diverse audience of business leaders, professionals, and innovators to discuss the ever-changing dynamics of an increasingly digital-first global business environment.

The theme of the evening was “Helping Brands Understand and Adapt to the Ever-changing Digital Environment”—a topic that resonated deeply with all present. The cozy yet professional ambiance of Teja Spaces, enhanced by the elegance of a bespoke Johnnie Walker Blue Masterclass, set the perfect stage for a dialogue rich in ideas and practical insights.

The podcast recording started late due to technical hiccups but the discussion picked up seamlessly and what unfolded was a deep dive into the interplay of technology, consumer behaviour, and brand strategy, expertly moderated by Andrew Barden, CEO of The Kenyan Wallstreet.

In my conversation with Andrew, I emphasized the increasing importance of adapting to emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and leveraging influencer-driven content to maintain relevance with today’s informed, aspirational consumers.

What We Discussed: A Detailed Recap

The conversation with Andrew Barden was candid and far-reaching. Here are some key topics we covered:

In-house vs. External Advertising Agencies: We discussed the growing trend of brands establishing internal agencies for cost efficiency and tighter control. I noted that while this offers some benefits, it risks creating a myopic view of a brand. External agencies bring fresh perspectives and creative ideas that are invaluable for long-term success.

Brand Communication in the Digital Age: Addressing misinformation and fake news, I shared how brands can combat these challenges by consistently communicating authentic and high-volume content. This approach not only counters misinformation but also builds trust and loyalty among consumers.

The Evolution of Media Consumption: We explored how platforms like TikTok and podcasts are reshaping content consumption, with consumers gravitating toward short, snackable formats. I drew parallels with the growing influence of grassroots media channels over traditional outlets.

Future of Print Media: With print newspapers like People Daily going fully digital, we debated whether print media has a future. I argued that legacy media must adapt to digital-first strategies while recognizing that younger generations have little affinity for print.

AI in Business Operations: Sharing my experiences with AI tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Riverside, I highlighted how AI is revolutionizing everything from recruitment to medical diagnostics. Companies that adopt these technologies early gain a compounding advantage that competitors struggle to catch up with.

Reaching Decision-Makers in a Digital World: For B2B companies, I recommended leveraging LinkedIn as a powerful tool for thought leadership and targeted advertising. I shared how my LinkedIn newsletter organically grew to 15,000+ subscribers, predominantly C-suite executives, showcasing the platform’s potential for meaningful engagement.

Closing Thoughts

As the evening drew to a close, it was clear that Teja Talks had accomplished its mission of fostering meaningful dialogue and connection among forward-thinking business leaders.

The intersection of technology, strategy, and creativity will continue to define how brands navigate the future, and forums like these are instrumental in shaping that journey.

In this episode of the Pure Digital Passion Podcast, I had a great conversation with Dele Akinsade, Senior Director of Cloud Expansion at Microsoft, to explore the transformative role of cloud technology and AI in Africa’s digital economy.

From the challenges of building AI-ready infrastructure to the groundbreaking work Microsoft Azure is doing across the continent, this conversation dives deep into the opportunities and innovations shaping Africa's digital future.

Dele also shares insights into his philanthropic efforts through the Dele Akinsade Foundation, which empowers young Africans—particularly girls—to pursue STEM education and careers. Learn how cloud technology, AI, and grassroots initiatives are converging to drive inclusive growth and innovation in Africa.

Tune in for expert perspectives on overcoming barriers like cost and regulation, the potential of AI in sectors like healthcare and agriculture, and practical advice for African businesses looking to adopt these transformative technologies.

🎙️ Topics Covered:

1/ AI-ready infrastructure: What it means for Africa

2/ Microsoft's cloud expansion strategy in Africa

3/ Overcoming barriers to cloud adoption: Cost, connectivity & regulation

4/ The impact of AI on Africa’s economy and industries

5/ Empowering Africa’s youth through STEM education👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insightful conversations on digital transformation from an African perspective!

Earlier this month, I had the privilege of visiting Africa Data Centres’ NBO1 facility in Nairobi, where I sat down with Dan Kwach, the Regional Executive for East Africa, for an insightful session on the Pure Digital Passion podcast. The conversation was a deep dive into the critical role Africa Data Centres (ADC) plays in driving the region’s digital transformation and what the future holds for this vital sector.

ADC continues to stand tall as Africa’s largest interconnected, carrier- and cloud-neutral data centre network. Through its state-of-the-art facilities, ADC ensures businesses across industries benefit from rapid, secure, and reliable digital services. The NBO1 facility itself is exceptional, housing over 100 network service providers and hosting 70% of East Africa’s financial institutions. As Dan revealed during our session, ADC is currently operating at 95% capacity, which is a reflection of the growing demand for robust and secure data solutions in the region.

One of the highlights of the conversation was ADC’s ongoing expansion in Nairobi, where they’re building out an additional floor to increase their data centre capacity. This expansion is not just about scale — it’s about introducing AI-ready infrastructure that can support next-generation workloads. Dan shared how AI, data sovereignty, and the arrival of hyperscalers are reshaping the region’s data centre landscape, creating immense opportunities for innovation and growth.

Another key topic was sustainability. ADC’s commitment to green energy solutions, including solar power installations and water-free cooling systems, demonstrates their leadership in creating environmentally responsible data infrastructure. This isn’t just about reducing their carbon footprint; it’s about setting the standard for the entire industry.

Data sovereignty was another focal point. As governments and businesses prioritize local data hosting due to privacy concerns and regulatory frameworks, ADC is uniquely positioned to provide secure, compliant environments for sensitive data. Dan emphasized how data centres like NBO1 are critical to Kenya’s ambitions of becoming a digital and innovation hub for East Africa.

The conversation also touched on the challenges and opportunities in the industry. While ADC’s success highlights the region’s progress, there is still room to grow — Africa accounts for just 3% of the global data centre capacity. However, as Dan rightly pointed out, this statistic represents a massive opportunity for growth as more international players invest in the continent’s digital infrastructure.

For me, this session reaffirmed the transformative impact of data centres on East Africa’s economy. ADC is not just building facilities; it’s building trust, empowering businesses, and driving innovation in Kenya and East Africa, at scale. 

I had the pleasure of sitting down with Mawingu’s CEO, Farouk Ramji, for an exclusive conversation on their latest milestone: a $15M fundraise and the acquisition of Tanzania’s Habari, a leading ISP based in Arusha. This move cements Mawingu’s position as East Africa’s largest ISP dedicated to rural and peri-urban markets.

Farouk shared insights into Mawingu’s disciplined expansion strategy, which focuses on bridging the digital divide in underserved areas. We discussed how Habari’s 30-year legacy aligns with Mawingu’s mission to deliver affordable, sustainable, and high-quality Internet connectivity. Farouk also revealed their decision to retain the Habari name while refreshing the brand to reflect Mawingu’s innovative ethos.

The $15M funding round, led by Africa Go Green Fund (Cygnum Capital) with support from InfraCo Africa and FMO, will accelerate Mawingu’s deployment of fiber and wireless networks across Kenya and Tanzania. Farouk detailed the challenges and teamwork behind the 18-month fundraising process and how this capital will enable rapid scaling.

Mawingu’s strategy addresses the “last mile” connectivity gap in East Africa, using a phased approach: deploying wireless technology to build customer bases before rolling out fiber in denser areas. With 175 towers supporting its operations, Mawingu is set to replicate its Kenyan success in Tanzania and beyond.

We also explored Mawingu’s people-first philosophy. Farouk highlighted stories of dedicated employees, like Martha, who rose from junior IT staff to a senior leadership role, showcasing the company’s commitment to nurturing talent.

Looking ahead, Mawingu’s 2028 vision to impact 1 million East Africans remains ambitious but achievable. With plans to explore Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC, Mawingu is poised to redefine digital connectivity in the region.

Tune in to hear Farouk’s reflections on leadership, the acquisition journey, and what’s next for Mawingu as it scales new heights.

I recently had the privilege of joining Gideon Ruhara on the Kesho Insights Podcast, where we explored some of the most transformative aspects of digital transformation in Kenya Africa.

From mobile technology and AI to overcoming barriers to digital transformation, we had an in-depth discussion on the opportunities and challenges shaping the continent’s digital future.

[29:47] Repurposing content to reach diverse audiences: I explained how I turn podcasts into blog posts, YouTube videos, newsletters, and even social media snippets to maximize reach and engagement.

1. Digital transformation is essential for businesses: It’s about rethinking how processes work and leveraging technology to improve outcomes.

2. AI will be transformative for underserved populations: Tools tailored for local languages and contexts could bridge gaps in access and efficiency.

3. Content creation is a journey of consistency and passion: By staying curious and committed, I’ve built a platform that opens doors to new opportunities.

4. Personal branding amplifies corporate messaging: People connect with individuals, making personal branding a powerful tool for business growth.

I’m excited to share highlights from the panel discussion I moderated on the 12th November 2024 at the launch of Adili Group’s Cyber Training Arena, Africa’s first and only advanced cybersecurity training facility. This discussion brought together experts from key sectors to explore the challenges and advancements shaping cybersecurity in Africa.

Our Expert Panel Included:

Rosa Nduati-Mutero (ALN Kenya): She shared her expertise on how governance and regulatory frameworks are critical for cybersecurity.

Ofir Hason (CyberGym): With extensive experience in cybersecurity, Ofir discussed the threats facing Africa’s critical infrastructure.

Esther Masese Waititu (Safaricom): Esther provided insights into balancing innovative digital finance solutions with strong security measures.

Njeri Jomo (Jubilee Health Insurance): Njeri emphasized the need for cybersecurity to protect sensitive health data.

Joylynn Kirui (Microsoft): Joylynn explained the role of DevSecOps in embedding security into cloud-based development workflows.

Discussion Highlights:

1. Global Cyber Threats & Africa’s Landscape: We looked at the global rise in cybercrime and its significant impact on Africa’s finance, healthcare, and critical services.

2. AI’s Dual Impact on Cybersecurity: AI is transforming cybersecurity by enabling both attackers and defenders to enhance their capabilities.

3. Supporting Cybersecurity for SMEs: Practical ways for small businesses to address cybersecurity, despite limited resources, were also discussed.

Key Takeaways:

1. People, Platforms, and Processes are essential for effective cybersecurity.

2. AI’s Dual Role: AI is an asset and a challenge in cybersecurity.

3. Building Cyber Resilience: Collaboration with regulators, tech providers, and business leaders is key.