Pure Digital Passion - The Moses Kemibaro Podcast: Recent Episodes

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In this episode of Pure Digital Passion, I spoke with Ranaf Makhani, founder and CEO of RIANA Group, about how his company is transforming customer experience (CX) through innovative technology solutions in Kenya and beyond.

The discussion covers Ranaf’s journey from growing up in Arusha, Tanzania, to founding RIANA Group in 2014. The podcast dives into the company’s key offerings, including queue management, visitor management, and electronic security systems, all designed to enhance customer experience across various sectors.

A key topic of conversation is RIANA Group’s upcoming Customer Experience Executives Forum on October 2nd, 2024. This event will bring together CX leaders to explore how businesses can leverage technology to improve customer satisfaction, retention, and business performance.

Throughout the podcast, Ranaf shares insights into how his company’s tailored solutions have addressed real-world business challenges in sectors such as healthcare, banking, and hospitality. He also reflects on the importance of gathering customer feedback to continuously refine and improve services. Ranaf touches on how COVID-19 accelerated digital transformation and the adoption of AI-driven technologies within RIANA Group’s solutions, making customer experiences more seamless.

Finally, the conversation wraps up with advice for entrepreneurs, focusing on solving real problems and using technology to drive growth.

Key Highlights:

• Ranaf’s journey from Tanzania to founding RIANA Group
• Key innovations in queue management, visitor management, and electronic security
• The role of customer feedback in improving CX
• RIANA Group’s approach to personalized, tech-driven solutions
• Insights into the upcoming Customer Experience Executives Forum
• The impact of COVID-19 on digital transformation in customer experience
• Ranaf’s vision for the future of customer experience in Africa
• Advice for entrepreneurs looking to break into technology businesses

Don’t miss this deep dive into customer experience technology! Subscribe to Pure Digital Passion for more engaging discussions with technology leaders.

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Join us for an insightful discussion with Lucas John Omollo, Chief Manager of ICT & Smart City Solutions at Konza Technopolis, as we explore the remarkable progress Konza has made in becoming a global smart city. 🌍

In this episode of the Pure Digital Passion Podcast, we cover:

• Konza’s achievements in ICT and smart city infrastructure
• The National Data Center and smart traffic systems
• Plans for the Kenyan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)
• The future of Kenya’s digital economy and job creation
• The role of the creative economy with the upcoming Digital Media City
• The 41st IASP World Conference, hosted in Nairobi from September 24th to 27th, 2024

📅 Register for the IASP World Conference: https://www.iaspworldconference.com/register/

✈️ Kenya Airways Special Offer: Get 15% off international flights and 7% off domestic flights with promo code KONZA24. Book via the Kenya Airways website or mobile app: https://www.kenya-airways.com/en/promotions/41st-iasp-world-conference/

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Earlier this week, while attending the ITW Africa Conference at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Nairobi, I had an unexpected reunion with an old friend and internet pioneer, Brian Longwe. It had been almost a decade since I last saw him, and what started as a chance encounter turned into an impromptu podcast session for Pure Digital Passion.

Brian, who is currently the CEO & Co-Founder at Converged Technology Networks, an ISP in Malawi, has been one of Africa’s most influential figures in the broadband and internet space. Over the past 30 years, he has spearheaded internet projects across more than 20 African countries.

A Humble Beginning in Nairobi

Born and raised in Nairobi, Brian had to drop out of St. Mary’s School when his family fell on hard times. Refusing to be idle, he began selling second-hand shirts in downtown Nairobi. Soon after, he found himself reselling surplus grapes imported from Tanzania, canvassing Nairobi’s upscale neighborhoods. One day, fate intervened when he knocked on the door of a family friend, who introduced him to the world of technology by teaching him how to type on a Toshiba laptop. From there, Brian’s fascination with technology blossomed, and he quickly went from selling clothes to learning computer skills that would set the stage for his career.

From Grapes to ISP Pioneering

In the early 90s, Brian’s foray into technology led him to his first tech job at Form-Net, where he became an installer of email systems. Not content with just installations, he started selling and fixing tech solutions, and soon his success drew the attention of Form-Net’s leadership. By 1996, Brian had risen to the role of technical manager, playing a pivotal role in bringing internet connectivity into Kenya.

By 1999, Brian co-founded ISP Kenya alongside some of Kenya’s leading internet visionaries. The company quickly established itself as one of the top ISPs for corporate clients, culminating in its acquisition by Wananchi Online, which helped form the Wananchi Group of Companies. Although Brian reflects on declining equity in the company as one of his biggest regrets, his influence in the region’s internet space remained undeniable.

Venturing into New Markets

After leaving ISP Kenya, Brian explored various entrepreneurial ventures, including IP telephony and forensics technology. His vast experience eventually led him to assist in setting up mobile money services in several African countries. In 2010, he became the Group CTO of MobiCash, overseeing the rollout of mobile money platforms in seven countries, a challenging but rewarding endeavor.

In recent years, Brian’s work in Africa has taken him to some of the continent’s most underserved regions. His experience establishing ISPs in Kenya, Uganda, and Malawi has given him a unique perspective on how technology can transform lives. In one of his most impactful projects, he helped set up internet-enabled containers in rural Uganda, offering young people microwork opportunities through partnerships with Silicon Valley firms like Samasource.

A Full Circle in Malawi

Today, Brian continues his work as an ISP pioneer in Malawi, one of the poorest countries in the world. Despite the challenges, he remains committed to connecting the unconnected, building infrastructure that delivers high-quality internet to underserved areas. His story is one of perseverance and vision, proving that no matter where you start, the determination to succeed can lead to extraordinary results.

As we wrapped up our conversation, Brian shared his thoughts on the future of Africa’s digital infrastructure. He believes that Africa is poised to be the next big thing in tech, with its youthful population and untapped potential. However, for the continent to truly flourish, it must cultivate its human resources by nurturing skilled, educated, and talented individuals.

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In our latest episode of the Pure Digital Passion podcast, I had the pleasure of hosting two industry leaders: Mary Muthoni, Partner Manager at Zoho in Kenya, and Pavan Verma, CEO of Redian Software. Together, we delved into the exciting landscape of digital transformation in Kenya and Africa, specifically how Zoho and Redian Software are empowering businesses with customer-centric solutions.

The conversation flowed from the insights shared during a recent panel discussion on the BFSI sector that was jointly hosted by Zoho and Redian Software during the same week, but we expanded the focus to cover Zoho’s wider impact across different industries in Kenya and the East African region. Here’s a breakdown of what we discussed and the key takeaways from this enlightening session.

Zoho’s Approach to the Kenyan and African Market

Mary Muthoni provided an in-depth overview of Zoho’s journey in Kenya and Africa, explaining how the company’s focus on localization and affordability has made it a game-changer for businesses of all sizes. Zoho’s products are designed to be accessible, scalable, and tailored to the specific needs of African businesses. The pricing is localized in Kenyan shillings, making it more affordable than many other global platforms as well as being less prone to foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations.

One of the key highlights was how Zoho adapted to the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, which accelerated the need for digital tools as businesses shifted to remote work. Zoho introduced tools like Zoho Workplace, which became instrumental in helping Kenyan businesses maintain productivity during the lockdown.

Mary also shared that Zoho’s presence in Kenya has continued to grow, with the company setting up a local office and building strong partnerships with companies like Redian Software who also have a local office in Kenya to expand its footprint.

Redian Software’s Role in Driving Customer-Centric Solutions

Pavan Verma shared the inspiring journey of Redian Software, which began in 2011 and has since become a key player in implementing Zoho’s CRM and cloud-based solutions across Africa. What sets Redian apart is their ability to tailor Zoho’s powerful suite of tools to meet the unique needs of businesses in Kenya and Africa.

Pavan emphasized that Redian Software is focused on helping businesses, particularly in sectors like banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI), leverage Zoho’s platforms to create seamless, customer-centric experiences. He discussed the importance of digital transformation in the African context and how Redian Software is enabling businesses to make this shift effectively.

From automating processes to integrating different systems, Redian Software ensures that companies can maximize Zoho’s potential, even building custom applications on Zoho’s Creator platform to meet specific business requirements.

Challenges and Opportunities in Digital Transformation

Both Mary and Pavan acknowledged that businesses in Kenya and the rest of Africa face significant challenges when adopting CRM and cloud solutions. These include concerns about data security, integration with existing systems, and the learning curve associated with new technologies. However, both Zoho and Redian Software are committed to addressing these challenges through robust support, localized pricing, and educating the market about the benefits of digital transformation.

Pavan shared a compelling case study of a client in Uganda, where Redian Software successfully migrated five different systems into one centralized Zoho platform, significantly improving operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. This is just one example of how Zoho and Redian are driving impactful change in the region.

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On August 14th, 2024, I moderated a panel at the Kenya Internet Summit and .KE Awards 2024 on Innovation and Entrepreneurship Best Practices for Kenya’s and Africa’s Digital Transformation. We had a productive discussion with Joel Karubiu, Njihia Mbugua, and Kenneth Njihia.

Government Process Automation: Lessons from Estonia and Kenya

Joel Karubiu shared insights on Estonia’s success in government automation, particularly its digital ID system, which underpins seamless access to services. This system has made Estonia a leader in e-governance. Joel noted that Kenya has made strides with initiatives like eCitizen but still needs improvements in service delivery.

He emphasized that building trust and better communication are essential for the success of such initiatives. The government needs to focus more on conveying the benefits of systems like the digital ID to the public to build confidence.

The Role of Solution Architects in Digital Transformation

Njihia Mbugua discussed how solution architects are vital in aligning business and technology interests within enterprises. He stressed that innovation should focus on addressing real problems rather than creating solutions in search of problems. Njihia also pointed out that integrating new technologies, such as AI and blockchain, can revolutionize industries like healthcare and agriculture by offering personalized medicine and enhanced food security.

He highlighted the importance of balancing these innovations with existing infrastructure, especially in sectors like banking, which still rely on legacy systems.

Leveraging AI for Business Efficiency

Kenneth Njihia explored how AI is transforming industries, especially in advertising. AI-generated visuals are becoming commonplace, helping companies save time and money. Kenneth also discussed how AI tools like ChatGPT are revolutionizing content creation and data analysis, enabling businesses to operate more efficiently.

While AI offers great potential, Kenneth emphasized that human creativity and local insights remain crucial in creating impactful marketing campaigns. AI’s role in improving customer service through chatbots was also highlighted.

Cybersecurity and Data Privacy in Kenya

Joel revisited cybersecurity, drawing from Estonia’s experience as the first country to be cyber-attacked in 2007. Estonia’s resilience is based on its digital ID system, which serves as a single source of truth for both government and private sector interactions.

He stressed the need for Kenya to prioritize cybersecurity and data privacy, urging individuals to take responsibility for safeguarding their personal information and calling for improved digital literacy to help citizens understand the value of their data.

Ethical Issues and Opportunities in Technology

Kenneth also addressed the ethical challenges in technology, such as the rise of gambling addiction among Kenyan youth. He shared how countries like Sweden use AI and digital IDs to control gambling activities, ensuring that individuals do not overspend. Kenneth called for similar innovations in Kenya to tackle these challenges while promoting the positive uses of technology, such as financial inclusion and online freelancing opportunities.

Conclusion: The Quiet Success of Kenyan Tech Startups

As the discussion wrapped up, I shared my observations on the quiet success of many Kenyan tech startups. Unlike the high-profile startups that often make headlines, companies like PesaPal and Turnkey Africa are quietly excelling in the B2B space by solving real problems and generating profits.

In conclusion, our discussion highlighted that digital transformation in Kenya and Africa is advancing steadily. To fully unlock its potential, we need to foster trust, improve digital literacy, and create an environment where innovation can thrive by solving real-world problems.

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In the latest episode of Pure Digital Passion, I had the pleasure of interviewing Steve Song, a telecommunications expert widely recognized for his detailed maps of Africa’s Internet infrastructure. Steve’s work has become essential for understanding the continent’s connectivity, but his contributions extend into policy advocacy, shared spectrum management, and efforts to expand affordable access.

From Canada to South Africa: A Transformative Journey

Steve’s journey began in the 1990s when he moved from Canada to South Africa after Nelson Mandela’s release. Working for Sangonet, one of the first non-profit Internet service providers in South Africa, Steve helped civil society organizations, including the ANC, connect with the world via email. This early experience showed him the power of digital technology to empower marginalized communities and sparked his passion for telecommunications policy.

The Birth of Africa’s Internet Maps

Steve’s famous maps, which visualize Africa’s undersea and terrestrial Internet infrastructure, began as a personal project in 2008. With new cables like Seacom and TEAMS being laid, Steve started sketching out maps to understand this new landscape. What began as a personal project soon became a public resource, widely used by policymakers, businesses, and the public to visualize Africa’s digital future. Despite modestly downplaying his design skills, Steve’s maps became an iconic reference at digital conferences across the continent.

Village Telco: Affordable Communication for Underserved Areas

Another significant chapter in Steve’s career was the founding of Village Telco, a social enterprise aimed at delivering affordable voice and Internet services using low-cost WiFi mesh networks. At a time when telecommunications regulations in South Africa were restrictive, Village Telco enabled communities to build their own networks. Although the project faced challenges with scalability, Steve described it as a valuable learning experience, emphasizing the importance of resilience in entrepreneurship.

Challenges in Policy and Regulation

Throughout our conversation, Steve discussed the challenges of pushing for more equitable access to communication infrastructure in Africa. Regulatory frameworks in many countries are still shaped by the legacy of state-owned telecommunications monopolies, which creates barriers for smaller operators. Steve advocates for regulations that actively support small operators, which he believes are key to extending connectivity to rural areas.

Shared Spectrum and TV White Spaces

Steve is also a strong proponent of shared spectrum management and TV White Spaces, which can help expand Internet access in underserved regions. Unlike traditional spectrum licenses, which grant exclusive rights to frequencies, shared spectrum approaches allow multiple operators to use the same frequencies, provided they don’t interfere with each other. Steve believes these strategies will be essential for unlocking affordable access in rural areas.

Looking Ahead: Community Networks and Collective Ownership

Steve sees community-driven initiatives and collective ownership models as crucial for filling the gaps left by private sector operators. Whether through cooperatives, municipalities, or community networks, these models not only provide access but also strengthen the social fabric of communities. We also discussed the potential of technologies like Starlink, which offer exciting possibilities but raise important questions about sustainability and local impact.

In closing, I want to thank Steve for sharing his wealth of knowledge and experience on Pure Digital Passion. His dedication to making communication infrastructure more accessible is truly inspiring.

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A week ago, I had the pleasure of diving into the exciting world of Samsung’s latest foldable smartphones with Anthony Hutia, Head of Mobile Experience at Samsung Electronics East Africa. We discussed the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 which were launched the previous week during the Samsung Unpacked event and feature advanced AI features and also have flexible financing options for Kenyan consumers.

Samsung’s Latest Foldables.

We kicked off our discussion with an in-depth look at Samsung’s new Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6. These devices are truly game-changers, offering unique foldable form factors that enhance multitasking capabilities and increase portability. The Galaxy Z Fold 6 boasts a large screen perfect for productivity and entertainment, while the Galaxy Z Flip 6’s compact design is ideal for those seeking style and functionality in a smaller package.

Anthony explained how the integration of Galaxy AI leverages the flexible form factor of these devices to deliver a new era of communication, productivity, and creativity. Features like Note Assist and the Google Gemini app provide users with seamless and enhanced mobile experiences, making these devices stand out in the market.

Financing Options & Pre-Order Incentives.

Understanding the financial challenges many face, Samsung has partnered with financial institutions in Kenya to offer flexible financing options. This enables customers to purchase these high-end devices with ease, spreading the investment over a period of time and making advanced technology accessible to a much broader audience.

For those eager to get their hands on the new devices, Samsung introduced attractive pre-order incentives. Customers who pre-order the Galaxy Z Fold 6 receive a slim S-Pen case, while those who opt for the Galaxy Z Flip 6 get a flip suite case set. These offers add significant value, making it an opportune time to upgrade to the latest foldables from Samsung.

Samsung East Africa’s Mobile Division Performance.

Anthony shared insights into Samsung’s recent performance in the mobile division in Kenya and East Africa, particularly the success of the Galaxy S24 series. The series has seen remarkable growth, driven by advanced AI capabilities and exceptional camera performance. The seamless integration with the Samsung Galaxy ecosystem further enhances the user experience.

Samsung’s wearables, including the new Galaxy Watch7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra, which were also launched during the latest Samsung Unpacked event offer intelligent health monitoring and personalized insights, catering to the growing demand for health and fitness tracking. These too will be available for purchase in Kenya and East Africa in the coming weeks.

Future Plans & Vision.

Looking ahead, Samsung is committed to continuing its innovation in mobile technology. Anthony discussed the company’s plans to tailor future products and services to meet the unique needs of the Kenyan and East African markets. The ongoing advancements in Generative AI and a focus on sustainability mean that Samsung will continue to deliver technology that enriches lives and drives progress.

Closing Remarks.

A big thank you to Anthony Hutia for sharing his insights and making this conversation so enriching. As smart technology unfolds and financial solutions become more flexible, it’s an exciting time for consumers in Kenya who can benefit from Samsung’s myriad offerings. Whether you’re looking to dive into the world of foldables or seeking flexible financing solutions, the future is in your hands, quite literally, with Samsung!

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In the latest episode of the Pure Digital Passion podcast I got to have an inspiring conversation with Kiiru Muhoya, the co-founder and CEO of Fingo. At just 27 years old, Kiiru is on a mission to transform the financial landscape for young Africans through Fingo, a fully digital bank, or ‘neobank’, tailored to their needs.

From Humble Beginnings To Visionary Fintech Leader

Kiiru recounted his educational journey, starting from his early years in Kenya, attending schools like Braeside and Brookhouse, to studying philosophy, politics, and economics at the University of Warwick in the UK which played a crucial role in shaping his aspirations.

His time at Warwick was transformative, providing him with a broader perspective on Africa and igniting his passion for entrepreneurship and innovation which led him to the fintech space. His drive to make a difference culminated in the founding of Fingo, a digital bank designed to empower Africa’s youth.

The Birth of Fingo

The idea for Fingo was born out of Kiiru and his co-founders’ desire to address the financial challenges faced by young people in Africa. They decided to bootstrap the startup, and their dedication paid off when Fingo was accepted into the highly regarded Y Combinator in 2021.

In our conversation, Kiiru shared the origin of the name “Fingo,” which stands for “finance on the go.” This name embodies their mission to provide fast-moving financial services that fit seamlessly into the lives of young Africans.

Strategic Partnerships & Innovative Features

A significant milestone in Fingo’s journey was the strategic partnership with Ecobank. This partnership has been instrumental in Fingo’s operations, enabling them to leverage Ecobank’s extensive network and resources. Fingo’s app stands out for its user-friendly features that resemble social media platforms, making financial management engaging and intuitive for users.

Fingo’s app incorporates social media-like features such as chat bubbles when sending money, making the experience feel personal and engaging. This design choice was inspired by successful global digital finance apps like Cash App and Monzo, aiming to make banking as intuitive as using a social media app.

Rapid Growth & Success

Fingo’s growth has been nothing short of remarkable. Just six months ago, they celebrated reaching 100,000 customers. Today, Fingo proudly serves 150,000 customers, a clear demonstration of their impactful strategies and the pressing need for their services. Kiiru attributes this rapid growth to a combination of innovative features, strategic partnerships, and a deep understanding of their target demographic — Africa’s youth.

Overcoming Challenges

Scaling a startup is never without its challenges. Kiiru candidly shared some of the obstacles they faced, from regulatory hurdles to technological issues. However, with a clear vision and a dedicated team, Fingo has managed to navigate these challenges effectively, continuing to grow and innovate.

Empowering Africa’s Youth

At the heart of Fingo’s mission is a commitment to cater to the financial needs of young Africans. Fingo’s services are designed to help users manage their finances better, create wealth, and secure their financial futures. With 70% of sub-Saharan Africa’s population under 35, Fingo is poised to make a significant impact.

Looking Ahead

Kiiru’s vision for Fingo is ambitious. Over the next 2 to 5 years, he plans to expand Fingo’s reach across not just Africa but globally with an ambitious and possibly audacious intention to bring their unique flavour of innovative financial solutions to more young people. Beyond professional success, Kiiru emphasizes the importance of balance, sharing how he unwinds by playing FIFA and ensuring he has time for personal pursuits.

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In this edition of the Pure Digital Passion podcast, I had the pleasure of having a quick catchup with Farouk Ramji, the CEO of Mawingu, Kenya’s largest ISP dedicated exclusively to rural and peri-urban markets.

Our last conversation was in October 2022, and since then, Mawingu has experienced remarkable growth and transformation. Here’s a summary of our discussion about Mawingu’s journey and future plans:

A New Home Base

One of the first things Farouk and I discussed was their brand new office at ABC Place in Westlands, Nairobi. This move marks a significant upgrade from their previous co-working space, reflecting the company’s growth and increased workforce.Following a Series B equity round of $9 million closed in January 2023, Mawingu has expanded to 28 counties, serving nearly 20,000 active subscribers with a dedicated team of 200 people.

Expanding Network and Reach

Farouk highlighted the aggressive network rollout in 2023, which saw Mawingu expanding from 11 to 28 counties. The challenge now lies in acquiring the necessary capacity to continue this growth, especially in areas like Mandera. Despite these hurdles, Mawingu remains focused on its mission to provide affordable internet access to underserved regions.

Strategic Positioning and Competition

Mawingu’s strategy has always been to target underserved markets, avoiding direct competition with major players. By employing versatile technology — wireless, fibre, and green-energy solutions — they can adapt to varying terrain and market conditions. This approach allows them to offer competitive pricing and high-quality service, differentiating themselves from both large mobile network operators and smaller unlicensed resellers.

Fibre Technology and Future Plans

The transition to fibre technology is a key part of Mawingu’s strategy. In markets like Nyeri, they have already deployed extensive fibre networks, offering superior quality and reliability compared to wireless solutions. By the end of 2024, they aim for 8% of their subscriber base to be on fibre, with plans to grow this into double digits.

Community Impact with Mawingu.org

A key initiative from our conversation is Mawingu.org, a community-focused program aimed at connecting schools and other institutions in underserved areas.There are over 150 schools connected and this initiative provides affordable internet that transforms education and opens up new opportunities for students and teachers alike.Supported by grant funding from Microsoft, Mawingu.org is set to expand further, connecting 50 to 100 schools in each operational county.

Financial Sustainability and Future Expansion

Farouk proudly shared that Mawingu is not only performing well in Kenya but is also financially sustainable, with positive unit economics and cash flow. This strong foundation sets the stage for potential expansion beyond Kenya, replicating their successful model in other regions.

Conclusion

Mawingu’s journey from a small Internet Service Provider (ISP) in Nanyuki to a major player in Kenya’s internet landscape is a reflection of their innovative approach and commitment to serving underserved markets.

As they continue to grow and expand, their impact on communities and the broader digital landscape in Kenya is undeniable. It was a pleasure to catch up with Farouk and hear about the exciting developments at Mawingu.

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In this edition of the Pure Digital Passion podcast I had the pleasure of hosting Kamal Budhabhatti, the founder and CEO of Craft Silicon, Little, and BluBeetle. Kamal’s journey from India to Kenya and his impact on the technology landscape in Kenya and Africa is nothing short of mind blowing! Here’s a summary of our insightful conversation.

Early Beginnings & His Journey To Kenya

Kamal shared about his humble beginnings in India and how he ventured into technology. His journey to Kenya started when a friend working in Kenya helped him secure a job. It was a significant event, as over 50 family members saw him off at the airport.

However, upon arrival, he found himself doing basic data entry tasks, which was not what he expected. A neighbor introduced him to a small bank needing a core banking system, and Kamal began moonlighting to assist them. Unfortunately, his employer discovered this and terminated him, sending him back to India the same day.

Determined to succeed, Kamal returned to Kenya with the support of his sister. He faced many challenges but gradually began developing software for the small bank. With the support of his landlord, who allowed him to stay rent-free, Kamal started onboarding more financial service providers, leading to the establishment of Craft Silicon.

Building Craft Silicon — From His Bedroom To 1,000+ Employees In Africa & Asia

Craft Silicon, which began as a one-person business, has grown into a leading financial services technology solutions provider with over 1,000 employees and operations in Africa and Asia.

Kamal’s big break came when he developed a core banking system for Equity Building Society, working closely with the legendary James Mwangi. This project was key as Equity Bank transitioned into one of Kenya’s largest banks.

Craft Silicon’s solutions are designed to integrate seamlessly with other financial systems, offering flexibility and affordability. A notable success is the recently launched SC Juza mobile lending app developed for Standard Chartered Bank in Kenya.

Founding Little — From Idea To Launch In 3 Weeks!

Kamal also shared the story behind Little, a ride-hailing service developed in response to the challenges faced by Uber drivers in Kenya. This was done with encouragement from Bitange Ndemo and support from the late Bob Collymore of Safaricom. Kamal and his team built the platform in just three weeks.

Today, Little has a Pan-African footprint, focusing primarily on servicing corporate clients and offering better compensation to driver partners. This approach has made Little particularly popular among women, who find it a safer option for evening rides.

Innovations and Future Plans — Create A US$ 1B Valued Business, Also Known As A Unicorn!

Kamal is also venturing into Generative AI with BluBeetle. Their new offering, BankGPT, is a multimodal chatbot designed to enhance customer experience through AI. This proposition leverages first-party data to deliver superior, customer-centric solutions at scale.

Looking ahead, Kamal aims to raise significant funding to start a massive fintech startup focusing on mobile lending across various markets. His vision is to create a unicorn — a billion-dollar valuation company.

Kamal believes in the potential of fundraising, provided startups have a practical plan for deploying funds toward sustainable business models.

Craft Silicon Foundation — Inspired By Humble Beginnings

Inspired by his own struggles growing up, Kamal established the Craft Silicon Foundation. The foundation operates in every market where Craft Silicon has an office, providing funding and learning opportunities for children from underserved communities.

Closing Thoughts & The Life Lessons For All

Kamal’s journey is nothing short of astounding and demonstrates how resilience, innovation, and the power of technology can transform lives — from being a freelance software developer in Kenya to running multiple technology businesses globally.

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In this episode of the Pure Digital Passion podcast I had the privilege of hosting Janice Kemoli, a seasoned Kenyan Marketing and Branding Advisor whose impressive career spans leading businesses such as Coca Cola, Colgate Palmolive, GSK, Barclays Bank (ABSA), East African Breweries (Diageo), Equity Bank, and most recently Prudential Insurance. Janice and I go way back to our days at Africa Online, one of Kenya’s pioneering Internet Service Providers over 20 years ago. Her journey and insights are nothing short of inspiring!

An Educational Marketing Journey From The US To Kenya & Beyond

Janice shared her story of pursuing a degree in Business Administration with a focus on marketing in the US. She described the challenges she faced, including tackling subjects like calculus and accounting, which were essential parts of the program. Despite initial intentions to stay in the US, she returned to Kenya after a thoughtful rejection from a potential employer encouraged her to leverage her skills back home.

Breaking Into Marketing & Branding

Upon returning to Kenya, finding a job proved challenging. Janice recounted how her mother didn’t initially understand what a career in marketing entailed, thinking it was the same as sales. However, with support from her father and determination, she landed her first role as a at Colgate Palmolive that led to her becoming a Brand Manager. This position allowed her to hone skills beyond traditional marketing, including financial projections, supplier collaboration, and packaging — emphasizing that all these tasks are integral to marketing when aligned with the 4Ps (Product, Price, Place, Promotion).

Advanced Marketing At Global Brands

Janice’s time at Coca Cola in South Africa was particularly enlightening. She shared anecdotes about the high-quality marketing and branding training provided at tertiary schools there, which often produces some of the best marketing professionals in Africa. Her experiences highlighted the structured and advanced approaches to marketing that she learned and implemented at Coca Cola and other global brands.

Creating A Unique Branding Framework

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Janice networked with senior marketing professionals globally and clarified her thoughts on the gaps in branding and marketing for indigenous Kenyan and African businesses. This led to the creation of a unique branding framework, which she currently deploys with leading businesses like Sarit Centre and Prudential Insurance, aligning with global standards she learned at top global brands.

The Importance of The 4Ps In Marketing & Branding

Janice provided a quick summary of why the 4Ps (Product, Price, Place, Promotion) matter:

• Promotion: The role of communication is to create desire.
• Product: The role of the product is to define the offer and benefits for the customer or consumer.
• Place: The role of distribution is to make the product available or place the product at the convenience of the customer or consumer.
• Price: The role of pricing is to define the value of your offer to the customer or consumer and bank the cheque.

Getting Mentorship & High-Quality Local Brands

Janice emphasized the importance of mentorship for aspiring and existing marketing professionals to enhance their capabilities. She also discussed the creation of high-quality local brands to international standards, citing the Social House Hotel in Nairobi as an example of a world-class, afrocentric experience that reflects the social personalities of its founders.

Conclusion

I am delighted that Janice shared her incredible journey in branding and marketing from both global and localised perspectives as well as the insights that come with decades of working experiences at leading organisations. Her dedication to advancing marketing and branding in Kenya and beyond is truly inspiring. To our audience, I hope this episode offers valuable insights into the power of strategic marketing and branding for organisations of all sizes.

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In this episode of the Pure Digital Passion podcast, I had the pleasure of hosting Maurice Matheka, one of Kenya’s and Africa’s only male professional relationship and sex therapists. Maurice is someone I know from my teenage years so its quite interesting I got to have him on my podcast. The truth be said, this podcast’s subject matter was completely uncharted territory for me as it had nothing in common with matters technology!

Maurice’s journey from growing up in Mombasa, studying and working in the UK, to becoming a full-time therapist in Kenya is nothing short of unconventional. During our candid and sometimes controversial conversation, we delved into the complexities of relationships, sexual satisfaction, and the societal factors impacting them. Buckle up!

The Importance of Honesty in Relationships

Maurice emphasized that many relationships fail due to a lack of honesty between partners. Whether it’s about the state of the relationship or individual needs, open communication is crucial. He pointed out that love alone does not guarantee the success of a relationship. Instead, an authentic friendship between partners is more important. Maurice believes that being honest from the onset can prevent many issues later on.

The Role of Religion and Societal Expectations

Our discussion touched on how religion often pressures individuals to stay in unhappy relationships. Maurice observed that this can lead to extramarital affairs as a form of escape. Additionally, he noted that young Kenyans often approach relationships transactionally, with money and resources being key drivers. This lack of a strong foundation can lead to unstable relationships.

The Struggles of Kenyan Men

Maurice shared that many Kenyan men feel unappreciated in relationships, seen only as providers rather than holistic beings who also need love and appreciation. This lack of emotional support can have severe consequences, including a rise in male suicide rates. Furthermore, he noted that many men are not being “masculine” enough, resulting in women finding them less appealing, even if they are married, leading to cheating and breakups.

The Importance of Sexual Satisfaction

A part of out conversation focused on sexual satisfaction. Maurice stated that unsatisfying sex is a major factor leading to infidelity among both men and women. He stressed the importance of getting the sexual aspect of a relationship right to ensure its overall success. Couples need to be honest about their sexual preferences and work together to maintain a satisfying sexual connection.

The Future of Relationships

Maurice’s outlook on the future of relationships in Kenya is somewhat pessimistic, given the current trends. However, he believes that both men and women can turn things around by having honest and candid conversations about their expectations and needs from the beginning. This proactive approach can prevent many issues that arise from unmet expectations and societal pressures.

Final Thoughts

Hosting Maurice Matheka on the Pure Digital Passion podcast was an eye-opening and even an uncomfortable experience at times!. His insights into the dynamics of relationships and sexual satisfaction are clearly invaluable even if they clearly challenge what may be many preconceived notions. By addressing these issues openly, couples can work towards healthier, more fulfilling relationships. Have a watch, or a listen, and keep an open mind!

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In this edition of the Pure Digital Passion podcast, I had the pleasure of hosting Martin Nielsen, the Founder and CEO of Mdundo, a mobile and ad-supported music service that has become one of Africa’s leading digital music platforms.

Although I have known Martin for a good number of years, our conversation was a truly eye-opening conversation about his incredible journey from starting Mdundo, building it over time and scaling it to where it is today.

Martin Nielsen’s Journey.

Martin’s journey to Kenya began in an unconventional way. He first traveled to Uganda as a university student for volunteer work, invited by a friend from Denmark. This experience marked the beginning of his deep connection with Africa. Later, in 2012, he moved to Kenya as an Entrepreneur in Residence for 88mph, an African investment fund focusing on early-stage tech startups. This role not only solidified his bond with the continent but also laid the groundwork for what would become Nairobi Garage.

The Birth of Mdundo

Inspired by his experiences and the vibrant technology startup ecosystem in Nairobi, Martin co-founded Mdundo. The company has since grown to become a clear leader in the African music industry, boasting millions of monthly active users primarily from Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Ghana, and Nigeria. Mdundo works with thousands of musicians across Africa and has secured licensing deals with major music groups like the Universal Music Group and Warner Music Group.

A Unique Business Model

Mdundo’s business model is unique and highly localized for the market in Africa. The service targets underserved consumer segments who cannot generally afford traditional subscription-based music streaming services like Spotify or Apple Music.

Mdundo offers affordable subscriptions through partnerships with mobile networks like Safaricom in Kenya and MTN in Nigeria. Users can pay for subscriptions using airtime and mobile money, making it accessible even to those with basic feature phones.

Additionally, Mdundo provides ad-supported music content, enabling free music downloads. This approach has attracted top-tier brands across the continent, making Mdundo’s offering both sustainable and appealing to a broad audience.

Growth and Achievements

Over the past decade, Mdundo has grown significantly, reaching tens of millions monthly active users in Africa, including 4 million in Kenya alone. The service has an annual reach of 205 million consumers across the continent and pays out approximately US$ 1.5 million in music royalties each year. A significant part of Mdundo’s success lies in its ability to be frugal in how it operates, focusing on bootstrapping even after raising US$ 7 million through its Nasdaq listing in Denmark. The funds raised were partly used to repay early investors and to recapitalize the business.

Supporting African Musicians

Mdundo plays a crucial role in supporting African musicians by expanding their reach and providing monetization opportunities. By creating a platform tailored to the unique needs and nuances of the African market, Mdundo has lowered the barriers to adoption for consumers and ensured that even those with limited resources can enjoy and share their music.

Key Lessons and Insights

During our podcast session, Martin shared valuable lessons and insights from his journey, offering advice to aspiring entrepreneurs in Kenya and beyond. His story is an empowering one in terms of how he used innovation, resilience, and a deep understanding of the local markets in Africa to create something that truly resonated with consumers at scale across the continent. Mdundo is undoubtedly for Africa, by Africa, which has ultimately underpinned its success to-date.

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In this edition of the Pure Digital Passion podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Cynthia Kahumbura, Co-Executive Director, and Jay Patel, Director of Technology at Jacaranda Health. Our conversation delved into the impactful work of Jacaranda Health in Kenya, the technological advancements they've made, the real-world impacts of their innovations, and their vision for the future. Here’s a breakdown of our enlightening discussion.

Origins and Evolution of Jacaranda Health.

Cynthia shared Jacaranda Health’s mission to ensure all mothers experience safe and respectful pregnancy and childbirth, and all newborns get a safe start in life. The organization partners with governments to deploy scalable solutions in public health systems. The COVID-19 pandemic was a significant turning point, catalyzing a digital transformation that has continued to shape their operations.

Technological Foundations and Scaling Up.

Jay discussed the evolution of Jacaranda Health’s technology stack. Initially relying on a basic messaging system, they have since integrated advanced AI solutions to support their operations. The journey of incorporating AI into their workflows taught them valuable lessons about scalability, flexibility, and the importance of real-world testing.

PROMPTS – Generative AI-Enabled Healthcare.

Jay explained how PROMPTS, their Generative AI-based platform, supports new and expecting mothers through a two-way SMS system. PROMPTS provides gestation stage-specific information and a Generative AI-powered clinical help desk to answer questions and trigger referrals for high-risk cases. Cynthia highlighted the positive reception of PROMPTS among healthcare providers and communities, with nearly 3 million mothers having used the platform since its inception and 600,000 active users annually.

Challenges and Opportunities.

Cynthia and Jay also discussed the significant challenges faced while scaling their technological solutions. Cynthia emphasized the importance of adaptability and collaboration, especially during the rapid expansion necessitated by the pandemic. Jay shared insights into using open-source LLMs like Llama 2 and 3, as well as Google Gemini 1.5 and the development of a Swahili-based LLM to ensure accessibility on entry-level mobile devices.

Real-World Impact and Case Studies.

Jay shared success stories that showcased the real-world impact of Jacaranda Health’s initiatives. For instance, the transition from handling around 100 service queries a day to over 5,000 daily queries was made possible through their generative AI capabilities, significantly improving efficiency and support for mothers. Jay also shared that PROMPTS is now being tested and deployed in other African countries like Eswatini and Ghana showing the broader potential for the Generative AI enabled platform beyond Kenya.

Vision for the Future.

Looking ahead, Cynthia and Jay discussed their vision for the next 2 to 5 years. They see technology and Generative AI becoming increasingly essential to their operations, with a focus on scaling their technology to new geographies and ensuring it remains accessible to all. Jay’s team is working on maintaining responsible, transparent, and ethical AI while continuing to innovate.

Personal Insights and Leadership.

Balancing innovation with practical challenges is a constant endeavour. Cynthia and Jay shared what motivates them: the impact of their work on mothers and babies, the continuous learning, and the collaborative spirit within Jacaranda Health. Their commitment to improving healthcare outcomes in resource-constrained environments is truly inspiring.

Conclusion.

As we wrapped up our conversation, Cynthia and Jay offered advice to other organizations looking to implement similar technological solutions in the health sector or any other sectors for that matter as the key principles apply broadly. They emphasized the importance of real-world testing, building simple and scalable systems, and having a good team that can make all this happen. They also shared ways that our audience here can support or get involved with Jacaranda Health's mission.

Closing Remarks.

Thank you Cynthia and Jay for joining us on the Pure Digital Passion podcast and sharing how Generative AI can be used in pragmatic and practical way 'on the ground' in Kenya and Africa to improve health outcomes at scale! Embracing such innovations represents a proactive step towards enhancing healthcare for all. We look forward to having you join us again soon!

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I had the pleasure of moderating a panel discussion titled “Revolutionizing Insurance with AI and ML: Practical Pathways for Product and Operational Excellence.” on the 9th May 2024 at the joint Association of Kenya Insurers (AKI) and Caava VantagePoint AI/ML Insurance Seminar that was held at the Emara Ole-Sereni Hotel in Nairobi.

The panel featured industry experts from leading companies who shared their insights and experiences on how AI and ML are transforming the insurance landscape. Our panel featured Hillary Murefu from Safaricom, Bente Krogmann from MTek Services, Harrison Muiru from Smart Application, and Martin Kiarie from SolvIT.

Key Discussion Points.

1. Innovative Approaches to Customer Experience: We explored specific technologies implemented to enhance direct customer interactions. For instance, Hillary Murefu highlighted Safaricom’s use of AI-driven customer service and data analytics to improve customer satisfaction and engagement.
2. Enhancing Policy Personalisation: Bente Krogmann discussed the role of data analytics in creating tailored insurance products at MTek Services. We also addressed the delicate balance between personalisation and privacy concerns.
3. Streamlining Operations with AI/ML: Harrison Muiru shared how Smart Application has transformed operational processes, particularly in claims processing and risk assessment, leading to significant cost reductions and increased service efficiency.
4. Navigating Risks and Ethical Considerations: Martin Kiarie outlined strategies SolvIT uses to maintain data security and privacy in their AI/ML deployments. We also delved into maintaining transparency and ethical standards in automated systems.

Conclusion

The discussion highlighted how AI and ML are not just buzzwords but practical tools driving significant improvements in Kenya’s and East Africa’s insurance sector. From enhancing customer experiences to operational efficiencies, the potential of these technologies is immense. However, as we continue to innovate, it is crucial to address the associated challenges and ethical considerations to ensure sustainable and responsible use of AI/ML in insurance locally , regionally, and globally.

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Earlier today I had the distinct pleasure of being a guest on one of Kenya's most popular urban radio stations, Nation FM 96.3. Hosted by Mariam Bashir and Brian Aseli on their 'Morning Fix' show, we dove into a one-hour segment dedicated to digital marketing and technology trends in Kenya and beyond on the 'Tech Tuesday' segment.

Over the past 25 years, I've witnessed and contributed to the phenomenal growth of digital marketing and technology in Kenya. From the early days of dial-up internet to the high-speed connections made possible by undersea cables, the landscape has evolved dramatically. The advent of affordable smartphones democratised internet access and effectively made a myriad of digital platforms a part of our daily lives.

A significant part of our discussion focused on Safaricom's M-Pesa revolutionary role in digital payments and how the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of e-commerce at scale as well as the now ubiquitous high speed and always on home internet services. This shift not only changed how we shop, but also how we work, paving the way for remote working to become a mainstay leading to the digital transformation of work as we know it in Kenya.

However, the rise of generative AI, such as ChatGPT in November 2022, brought with it a wave of both excitement and concern. The potential for job displacement is real, yet it also presents an opportunity for us to address and mitigate built-in biases and ethical dilemmas.

Another critical area we touched on was the need for reskilling and upskilling. Whether it's digital marketing skills for traditional marketers or technology competencies for recent University graduates, ongoing education is essential for staying relevant in the job market.

We also explored the dynamic world of influencer marketing, which has become a cornerstone for brands looking to connect with consumers in Kenya. Lastly, we discussed the importance of personal branding through digital channels — a must for anyone looking to enhance their career or business visibility.

I'm excited to share the video and audio recording of this insightful discussion with you all!

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In this 100th episode we mark nearly three years of exploring the digital ecosystem in Kenya and Africa. Since our first episode on June 21, 2021, we've delved into diverse topics, speaking with innovators, thought leaders, and changemakers who are shaping Africa's digital landscape.

This journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, filled with insights, discoveries, and inspiring conversations that have highlighted the vibrant and dynamic nature of digital transformation in our region.

Today, as we celebrate this milestone, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all our listeners for their unwavering support and engagement.

In an engaging conversation on the sidelines of a content marketing training session I conducted this weekend at Aga Khan University's Graduate School of Media and Communications, I was interviewed by Irene Abalo Otto, a seasoned Ugandan multimedia journalist and digital safety trainer from the Nation Media Group. Irene brought to the fore pressing concerns about how traditional media enterprises are adapting — or struggling to adapt — to the rapid uptake of digital media by consumers in Kenya and the broader East African region.

Navigating the Digital Transition: The Struggle for Traditional Media Businesses.

As traditional media businesses strive to adapt to a digital-first consumer paradigm, they face the dual challenge of transforming their business models and effectively monetizing their content. A prime example Irene highlighted is the attempt by media houses to implement paywalls for premium content — a strategy that has not resonated well with consumers, especially in East Africa, where there is a significant resistance to paying for digital media subscriptions as the majority of consumers cannot afford it, or don't see the value in paying for it.

The Urban-Rural Divide in Media Consumption.

The conversation also touched on the contrasting media consumption trends in urban versus rural scenarios. While traditional mediums like radio continue to dominate rural areas, urban centers show an increasing preference for digital formats like podcasts, particularly among younger demographics. This urban-rural divide not only influences content creation but also the strategies for monetizing such content effectively.

Short-Form Content & Social Media: A Double-Edged Sword.

Another critical aspect we discussed was the need for media companies to rethink how they create and package content. The rise of platforms like TikTok has popularized short-form content, prompting a shift in consumer expectations. Media businesses are thus compelled to innovate continually not just in what they produce but how they present it, making content both engaging and suitable for consumption on social media, where a significant portion of content discovery now occurs.

The Content Monetization Challenge.

Despite these innovations in content format and distribution, traditional media still faces the challenge of monetizing their offerings effectively, particularly on social media platforms. While content can reach a broader audience via social media, converting that reach into substantial revenue streams remains a challenge. The reality is that while consumers are increasingly engaging with content on these platforms, the returns to content creators, especially those in high-quality journalism, are not commensurate with their investment.

Going Forward - What Next?

My interview with Irene concluded on the note that traditional media businesses must embrace adaptive strategies that not only address current and fast evolving consumer behaviours and advancements in technology like Artificial Intelligence or AI, but also anticipate future trends. This may include exploring diverse revenue models, enhancing digital engagement strategies, and continually innovating in content delivery to meet the evolving demands of a digital-first audience in Kenya and East Africa.

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I had the opportunity to facilitate a training session on content monetization at the Aga Khan University's Graduate School of Media and Communications in Nairobi. The participants, from various parts of East Africa, are currently attending Masters Degree Programs at the University.

My session was a key part of their learning to better understand the nuances around effective and efficient content monetization in the context of digital media and platforms - drawing on both local and international examples to present practical, applicable strategies, and tactics.

Here is a summary of the key areas we covered from the content monetization training session:

1. Diverse Monetization Models.

Advertising: Generate revenue through ads placed within content.

Subscriptions: Offer premium content for a recurring fee.

Affiliate Marketing: Earn commissions by promoting third-party products.

Community Engagement: Monetize through exclusive interactions within a dedicated community.

Licensing: Sell the rights to use content to other businesses.

Brand Partnerships: Partner with companies to promote their products or services.

Non-Content Based Activities: Utilizing expertise to offer consulting, coaching, hosting events, speaker engagements, co-branding businesses, co-creating businesses, etc.

2. Platform-Specific Strategies.

Platforms like YouTube, Twitch, Patreon, and Substack provide unique tools that cater to different types of content and monetization approaches. Understanding the strengths and limitations of each platform can maximize revenue potential.

3. Selling Digital & Physical Products & Services.

Creators can also engage in direct sales by offering merchandise or digital products like e-books or courses, leveraging platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce and Payd, a local platform in Kenya and East Africa. .

4. Building and Engaging Communities.

Tools such as Discord, Mighty Networks, and WhatsApp help in fostering an engaged community, enhancing the potential for monetization through memberships and exclusive content.

5. Best Practices for Success.

Deep audience understanding and strategic diversity in revenue streams are crucial. Creators should use analytics to refine their strategies continually and align their efforts with market trends.

6. Ethical Considerations.

Transparency about sponsorships and adherence to advertising regulations are essential to maintain trust and authenticity.

Conclusion.

My deepest gratitude goes to all the attendees who made the post-training discussions incredibly lively and insightful. It was a pleasure to share valuable knowledge and experiences from my perspectives, and equally, learn from the rich discussions we had.

In conclusion, content monetization offers incredible opportunities but requires a nuanced approach tailored to specific content types and audience needs.

Understanding and leveraging the right tools and platforms is key to turning creative output into a viable, substantial and sustainable revenue generating model.

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In the latest episode of the Pure Digital Passion podcast, I had the opportunity to hosting Ayisi Makatiani, an iconic figure in the realm of technology in Kenya and Africa for over 25 years. From pioneering internet services on the continent in 10 countries with Africa Online to leading transformative AI initiatives in the insurance sector through Caava VantagePoint AI and Agencify, Ayisi's journey is nothing short of inspirational. We had an in-depth conversation on the intersections of entrepreneurship, technology, innovation, and insurance.

A Journey From Western Kenya To The Very Cutting Edge of Technology Innovation.

Our conversation kicked off with Ayisi’s formative years in Western Kenya, his academic path through prestigious institutions like Alliance High School and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and the key moments that shaped his technology-driven career trajectory. Ayisi shares his experiences from the early days of internet expansion in Africa to the impactful roles he has played in venture capital and technology innovation.

Disrupting Insurance In Kenya and Africa.

Ayisi talks extensively about his ventures, Agencify and Caava VantagePoint AI, where he integrates advanced AI and ML technologies to address the unique challenges of the Kenyan and African insurance market. We explored how these innovations offer more than just technological advancements; they bring about a paradigm shift in how insurance services can be delivered and experienced by millions of Africans.

The Role of AI and ML in Redefining Insurance In Africa.

The upcoming AI/ML Insurance Seminar, co-hosted by the Association of Kenya Insurers (AKI) and Caava VantagePoint AI, is a focal point of our discussion. Ayisi gave us a preview of what the seminar aims to achieve and the broader impact of these technologies on the African insurance landscape.

The Way Forward.

Looking ahead, Ayisi shares his strategic vision for the next 2 to 5 years, both for his companies and the broader technology and insurance sectors in Kenya and Africa. His insights are a call to action for young entrepreneurs and established leaders alike, emphasizing the transformative power of embracing technology and innovation.

Closing Thoughts.

Ayisi's parting thoughts resonate with a detailed understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. He inspires not only with his achievements but also with his commitment to continuous learning and innovation.

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In this exclusive interview with CNBC Africa's Tabitha Muthoni at the recently concluded Connected Africa Summit 2024, I discussed the transformative impact of fintech and e-commerce on Kenya's economy. During the conversation, I delved into the fintech sector, energized by significant foreign and local investments, as well as contextually relevant innovations.

At the heart of this transformation is Safaricom's M-Pesa, which has become a key driver for numerous financial services and startups in Kenya. I highlighted the creativity of nearly 100,000 developers who are using M-Pesa to create new, value-added solutions in Kenya's digital financial services landscape.

I also covered the explosive growth of e-commerce, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the critical role of mobile money in supporting a variety of digital transactions and services in Kenya. However, despite Kenya's impressive progress from a digital financial services perspective, we face ongoing challenges such as digital divides and regulatory constraints going forward. Nonetheless, through strategic collaborations and an adaptive regulatory approach, Kenya is making headway in overcoming some of these barriers.

I also stressed the importance of learning from global digital leaders and engaging in knowledge exchange to boost Kenya's local innovations. By drawing on experiences from countries like Estonia and collaborating internationally, Kenya can further enhance its leadership as one of Africa's most digitally progressive countries. Ultimately, this interview not only reflects on Kenya's current achievements but also outlines the vast potential for future advancements. Please watch or listen to what I think are valuable perspectives to help navigate Kenya's fast-evolving digital landscape.

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This was a panel discussion from the Kenya ICT Authority's Connected Africa Summit held on Tuesday the 23rd of April 2024 for which I was the moderator. The panel focussed on the critical themes of AI and cybersecurity within the African continent's evolving digital landscape. Our panelists for this engaging conversation included the following:

• Hon. Waweru John Kiarie, Chair, ICT Committee
• Saleh Al-Nemer, Regional CT & Distinguished Technologist, HP Enterprise
• Kelvin Mugambi, Cybersecurity Technical Solutions Architect Sub-Saharan Africa, Cisco
• Imran Chaudhrey, Country Manager for East Africa, Network Security Business, Fortinet

Michael Odhiambo, Director, Shared Services, Kenya ICT Authority

Moses Kemibaro, Founder & CEO, Dotsavvy (Moderator)

Overview.

The session began with each panelist sharing pivotal steps their organizations or sectors have taken to enhance AI integration and cybersecurity within their domains. Topics covered ranged from the integration of AI in government services, bridging the AI literacy divide, current regulatory environments, the critical components of resilient cybersecurity infrastructures, and more.

Discussion Highlights.

• The integration of AI technologies to enhance public service delivery and economic growth.
• Measures to protect digital infrastructures from emerging cyber threats.
• The role of legislative and regulatory frameworks in fostering a secure and innovative digital environment.
• Collaborative efforts needed to fortify Africa's digital landscape against evolving cyber threats and to unlock new avenues for innovation and economic growth.

Conclusion.

In a nutshell, the panel discussion emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts, innovative policies, and proactive measures to unlock the full potential of digital technologies for Africa’s future. The insights shared not only reflect the African continent's readiness to embrace digital transformation but also its capability to lead in the AI and cybersecurity domains.

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On March 8, 2024, I had the privilege of participating as a panelist at the Association of Kenya Insurers' (AKI) Insurance Agents Forum, held at Marist International University in Karen. The forum hosted 1,000+ insurance sales agents who excelled in 2023, featuring a broad collective of demographics and expertise.

This gathering served as a critical platform for education, inspiration, and networking, underpinned by the theme of digital transformation in Kenya's insurance sector with a focus on Insurance Agents.

With over 90% of insurance business in Kenya channeled through agents and brokers, digital transformation presents an unprecedented opportunity to enhance efficiency, expand reach, and solidify the role of insurance in Kenya's economic and social development.

The Discussion Panel.

The panel included the following:

• Moses Kemibaro: Digital Marketer, Technology Expert, and Founder & CEO of Dotsavvy, bringing to the table a wealth of experience in digital innovation.
• Eunice Maina: Digital Insurance Sales Agent, Trainer, and Author, Founder & MD of BISMART, known for her pioneering work in digital sales strategies.
• Alex Mwai: Digital Marketer & Strategist specializing in MSMEs, Founder & Creative Director of Archer Digital, with insights into digital strategies for growth.
• Rebecca Mayeku: Assistant Data Commissioner for Compliance at the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (OPDC), offering perspectives on regulatory compliance and data protection.

The session was expertly moderated by Hazel King’ori, Public Relations, Research, and Education Lead at the Association of Kenya Insurers, and Nickson Yala, Head of Department for Individual Life Insurance at Kenindia Insurance, both of whom facilitated a dynamic and insightful discussion.

Our Discussion Highlights.

Our panel delved into crucial areas, exploring the key role of a comprehensive digital presence for insurance agents, and identifying successful digital marketing strategies to stay relevant and successful, as follows:

• Building A Strong Digital Presence: The unanimous opinion of the panel the critical importance of establishing a strong digital footprint for connecting with potential and existing clients and nurturing lasting relationships.
• Expanding Client Base with Digital Marketing: We explored a variety of strategies, including content marketing, social media engagement, and targeted advertising, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and value-driven communication.
• Leveraging Technology for Client Relationships: Our discussion highlighted the potential of artificial intelligence, social media content, and personalized digital channels to enhance client service and retention.
• Navigating Digital Platform Pitfalls: The conversation turned towards common mistakes, such as neglecting data privacy, underestimating the value of content, and the pitfalls of ignoring customer feedback on digital channels.

The conversation naturally progressed to the critical topic of data privacy under the Data Protection Act, discussing practical do's and don'ts for agents in handling customer information. Additionally, we tackled the challenges and solutions in embracing digital transformation, the burgeoning role of data analytics and AI, and the practical contributions of insurance sales agents towards environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals.

Closing Thoughts.

The AKI Agents Forum 2024 demonstrated that a massive shift is needed toward integrating digital innovation, data protection, and sustainability into the core of insurance sales strategies. The event was an inflection point for insurance agents navigating the complex yet promising digital landscape in Kenya and beyond.

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On the evening of the 14th of March 2024, the day before World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD), Citizen TV hosted an engaging panel discussion on ethical and inclusive Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Kenya. This year’s global theme for WRCD was “Fair and Responsible AI for Consumers,” making the conversation both timely and critical. The Communications Authority of Kenya, in its commitment to marking World Consumer Rights Day, organized this live discussion as a live broadcast and invited a diverse group of panelists who are at the forefront of technology, regulation, and consumer advocacy.

The following made up the panel for the discussion:

Immaculate Kassait, MBS, Data Commissioner at the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner, brought a regulatory and data protection viewpoint, crucial for understanding the legal framework that surrounds AI.

Peter Ndegwa, C.B.S, CEO of Safaricom PLC, offered insights from the frontline of integrating AI in telecommunications and how it shapes consumer experiences.

Stanley Kamanguya, PMP®, OGW, CEO of Kenya’s ICT Authority, provided a governmental perspective on how AI is being harnessed and regulated within public sector projects and initiatives.

Agnes Gathaiya, Country Director for Google in East Africa, represented the international technology community, giving us a glimpse into how global technology platforms are navigating the AI landscape.

David Mugonyi, Commissioner General and CEO of the Communications Authority of Kenya, shared the regulatory body’s stance on AI’s proliferation within Kenya’s communication sectors.

Alice Kemunto, Executive Director at the Consumer Grassroots Association, Kenya, provided a critical consumer advocacy perspective, emphasizing the impact of AI on everyday Kenyans.

Moses Kemibaro, that’s me, Founder & CEO at Dotsavvy, I aimed to bridge the gap between digital innovation and consumer rights, focusing on how organizations and individuals can leverage AI responsibly.

The discussion was moderated by Sam Gituku, a journalist from Royal Media Services.

The panel represented a multifaceted approach required to navigate the complexities of AI in the context of Kenya.

What We Discussed.

From the onset, our discussion covered the expansive landscape of AI, from regulatory frameworks to the tangible impacts on the lives of consumers, both in Kenya and globally. We grappled with questions of regulatory oversight, exploring whose mandate it is to navigate this uncharted territory. The consensus captured a collaborative approach, involving government bodies, the private sector, and civil society, to ensure AI’s ethical grounding in Kenya and beyond.

We delved into specific examples where AI has begun to transform consumer experiences for the better, from healthcare diagnostics to personalized education platforms, showcasing AI’s potential to enhance daily life. Yet, amidst the enthusiasm, we collectively acknowledged the dual edge of AI: its potential for great good and significant harm. This duality brought us to consider the optimism surrounding AI, weighing it against the criticisms and fears often associated with its rapid advancement.

Discussing the need for AI uptake at scale in Kenya and beyond, we stressed the critical role of infrastructure, digital literacy, and policy frameworks tailored to our unique context. Ensuring fair and responsible AI expansion became a central theme, prompting a rich exchange on ethical considerations and how much trust we can afford to place in AI with critical and highly impactful decisions.

A key moment in our conversation touched on the digital divide, with AI acting as both a bridge and a barrier between the developed and developing aspects of Kenya and the rest of the world, the rich and the poor.

As we expounded on AI’s impact on the job market, it was clear that the shift towards automation and AI-driven technologies presents both challenges and opportunities for workforce development in Kenya and far beyond our borders.

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On the 28th of February 2024, a landmark event took place at USIU - Africa, bringing together some of the continent's most innovative minds in the field of artificial intelligence or AI. During the same, I had the privilege of moderating a panel discussion titled "African AI Pioneers: Charting the Course for Innovation and Impact" that explored the transformative potential of AI in Africa. During the same, we had an engaging and highly insightful discussion that not only outlined the current state of AI in Africa but also paved the way for a future brimming with promise and possibilities.

Our panelists were as follows:

• Darlington Akogo, Founder and CEO, minoHealth AI Labs.
• Vukosi Marivate, Co-Founder/CTO, Lelapa AI. Co-founder, Deep Learning Indaba. Co-founder, Masakhane
• Alfred Ongere, Team lead and Founder, AI Kenya

Discussion Highlights.

The conversation set the stage for an in-depth exploration of the challenges and opportunities presented by AI innovation on the African continent. Each panelist brought to the table their unique perspectives and expertise, shedding light on diverse aspects of AI's role in Africa's future.

Darlington Akogo elaborated on AI's potential to revolutionize healthcare in Africa, emphasizing radiology's pivotal role. He stressed the importance of addressing the stark funding disparities faced by African AI startups compared to their Western counterparts, advocating for tailored solutions that meet Africa's unique healthcare challenges.

Vukosi Marivate spoke passionately about advancing NLP to support low-resource African languages, making a compelling case for "language as infrastructure" to foster unity and inclusivity. His insights into Lelapa AI's mission highlighted a dedicated effort to cater specifically to African needs, while also touching upon the critical issue of brain drain and the necessity of nurturing local talent and research communities through initiatives like the Deep Learning Indaba.

Alfred Ongere emphasized the importance of building AI capacity and fostering a thriving ecosystem within Kenya and across Africa. He highlighted Ai Kenya's focus areas and the impactful outcomes of AI evangelism, calling for enhanced collaboration among innovators, policymakers, and investors to drive sustainable development.

Throughout the discussion, ethical considerations, inclusivity, and the need for a collaborative framework were highlighted as vital components in ensuring that AI benefits all segments of African society.

Conclusion.

In closing, our panel reaffirmed AI's transformative potential for Africa. They highlighted the critical areas of healthcare, agriculture, language processing, and capacity building as mere starting points for the African continent's AI journey. The vision shared by the panelists for an AI-enabled future that reflects Africa's diverse needs and aspirations captures the opportunities and challenges for all stakeholders to play their part in making this a reality.

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In the latest episode of the Pure Digital Passion podcast I had the distinct pleasure of having an engaging conversation with Linda Ndungu, the Country Manager of Bolt Kenya. Linda is spearheading the transformation of the ride-hailing sector in Kenya, pushing the boundaries of innovation, safety, and sustainability. Our conversation shed light on her incredible journey, Bolt Kenya's significant milestones, and the profound impact they're making on both urban mobility and the community at large.

Linda Ndungu's Journey.

Our session kicked off with Linda sharing personal insights into her early life and how her upbringing influenced her career trajectory, leading her to the helm of Bolt Kenya. She walked us through her path to becoming Country Manager, highlighting her passion and drive for leading Bolt Kenya towards a future where mobility is not only accessible but also safe and sustainable.

Innovation @ Bolt Kenya.

Under Linda's leadership, Bolt Kenya has adapted its business model to tackle the unique challenges and opportunities within the Kenyan market. A significant part of our discussion centered on the innovative safety measures Bolt introduced in 2023, showcasing the company's commitment to the well-being of its riders and drivers. Linda elaborated on how technology plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of Bolt's services, a testament to the company's forward-thinking approach.

Empowering Communities & Building Relationships.

Linda also touched on the strategies Bolt Kenya employs to make its services accessible to a broader segment of the Kenyan population, leading to better community and driver relationships. Her insights into Bolt's environmental initiatives and sustainability goals were particularly enlightening, highlighting the company's dedication to not just business success but also environmental stewardship.

The Road Ahead.

Throughout our conversation, Linda candidly discussed the challenges Bolt has faced in the Kenyan market and how these obstacles were transformed into stepping stones for further growth and innovation. She shared her vision for Bolt's evolution in Kenya over the next few years, her thoughts on the future of mobility and transportation in the country, and a memorable story illustrating Bolt's positive impact on individuals' lives.

Inspiration & Empowerment.

Linda's advice to young women aspiring to leadership roles in technology and transportation was both inspiring and empowering, highlighting her role as a mentor and trailblazer in the industry. As we concluded our session, Linda shared her final thoughts on Bolt in Kenya's journey and the path forward, leaving us with a deeper understanding of Bolt's mission to enhance urban mobility in Kenya.

The Future Fuelled By Innovation.

Our conversation with Linda Ndungu offered a rare glimpse into the heart of Bolt Kenya's operations and its unwavering commitment to transforming the ride-hailing landscape. Linda's dedication to innovation, safety, and community empowerment serves as an inspiration to us all. As we reflect on the insights shared, it's clear that every ride and every initiative spearheaded by Bolt takes us closer to a more connected, sustainable, and mobile future.,

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I n this episode of the Pure Digital Passion podcast we delved into the important matter of the Kenya Revenue Authority's (KRA) Electronic Tax Invoice Management System (eTIMS). This session brought together key voices from tax compliance and technology in Kenya: Caroline Wacuka from KRA, independent tax and finance expert Limo Taboi, and Caine Wanjau, the Founder & CEO of DigiTax. Together, we explored how eTIMS is revolutionizing tax compliance for businesses and individuals in Kenya.

What is eTIMS?

The eTIMS system is KRA's innovative response to the challenges of tax compliance, designed to facilitate a seamless, efficient, and transparent process. By automating tax invoicing, eTIMS significantly reduces the administrative burden on businesses and individuals, ensures accuracy in tax reporting, and combats tax evasion. This system is not just a step forward in digitalization; it's a major transition towards enhancing the ease of doing business in Kenya.

The Significance of eTIMS.

With a deadline for sign-ups looming on the 31st of March 2024, the urgency to understand and adopt eTIMS has never been more critical. The platform's development was driven by a need to align tax processes with the dynamic nature of modern business and individual operations, offering a solution that is both accessible and comprehensive.

Insights from Our Guests.

Caroline Wacuka highlighted the motivations behind eTIMS: improving tax compliance and making the process more manageable for businesses and individuals. This initiative represents KRA's commitment to leveraging technology for the public good.

Limo Taboi offered practical insights into how eTIMS aligns with the needs of today's businesses, emphasizing the immediate impact of reducing operational delays and inaccuracies in tax reporting.

Caine Wanjau discussed DigiTax's role in complementing eTIMS by offering an easy-to-use platform that further simplifies tax compliance. DigiTax's features, such as multi-user access and real-time notifications, are designed to enhance the eTIMS experience.

Embracing eTIMS.

The session covered a wide range of topics, from the importance of eTIMS in tax planning to the benefits it provides to businesses and individuals, including streamlined compliance processes and better resource allocation. The discussion also touched on the critical support and resources KRA offers during the transition, the significance of eTims in facilitating easier tax compliance, and the future updates expected to enhance compliance further.

One of the key takeaways was the emphasis on the need for businesses and individuals to embrace these platforms proactively. With the deadline for eTIMS sign-up fast approaching, understanding and leveraging these tools is paramount for ensuring compliance and optimizing business operations.

Final Thoughts.

Our guests unanimously agreed that adopting eTIMS and exploring solutions like DigiTax represents a proactive step towards not just meeting tax obligations but doing so with unprecedented efficiency and accuracy. As Kenya moves towards a more digitalized future, embracing these innovations is essential for business and individual success.

The insights shared during this podcast session highlight the transformative potential of eTIMS for tax compliance in Kenya. As we navigate this new landscape, the collective expertise of authorities like KRA, and pioneers like Caine Wanjau, alongside the practical advice from experts like Limo Taboi, will be invaluable.

To all businesses and individuals in Kenya, the message is clear: the future of tax compliance is here, and it's time to adapt. Embrace eTIMS by the 31st of March 2024 deadline to ensure your operations are aligned with the latest in tax compliance technology.

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The Converge III event titled 'AI: Better Marketing Through Experiments' 📊 was held on the 2nd February 2024 in Nairobi 🇰🇪 at the Four Points Sheraton Hotel in Hurlingham.

It featured a stellar line-up of marketers and technology experts 👩‍💼👨‍💼 who made presentations and had a discussion panel with impactful conversations 💬, valuable insights, and connections with like-minded people who reshaped views on AI and how it influences marketing strategies 🚀.

During the same, I made a presentation titled 'Don't make a human do a robot's job! 💼🤖: 6 reasons why AI will save us and not destroy us in the future of work'. In the same, I shared the six reasons why Generative AI will save us as follows:

Speed of Execution 🏃‍♂️: Generative AI drastically reduces the time needed to complete tasks. It allows us to accomplish more in less time, redefining productivity and making time an even more valuable resource ⏳.

Quality of Outputs 🌟: Generative AI has led to a noticeable improvement in the quality of work. Whether working individually or collaboratively, the output is often superior to traditional methods.

Increased Productivity 📈: The sheer volume of work achievable with generative AI is astonishing. It empowers individuals and businesses to achieve what was previously impossible, amplifying productivity.

Reduced Costs 💸: By incorporating generative AI, businesses and individuals can reduce operating costs. This cost-effectiveness leads to optimized profits and resource allocation.

Improved Revenues 💰: Generative AI can create new revenue streams and increase productivity. Understanding and leveraging AI tools like ChatGPT makes this possible scale.

Easier Work 👌: Generative AI has made complex and challenging tasks much easier. This opens up new possibilities, allowing people to engage in activities or produce outputs that were once out of reach.

I also shared the acronym I created recently for what I see as the key benefits of Generative AI being, 'FESSBEC', as follows:

Get work done FASTER ⚡Make work EASIER 😌Work SMARTER 🧠Keep work SIMPLER 📉Create work That’s BeTTER 🏆Get Work Done CHEAPER 🛒

This all becomes FESSBeC!

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In the latest episode of the Pure Digital Passion podcast, we had the privilege of hosting Peter Maina Muriithi, an influential figure in Kenya's fast-growing technology education space where he is currently ALX Africa's General Manager for Kenya with an ambitious mission to nurture the next wave of technology talent in the country. We had a candid and deeply insightful conversation where he shed light on the transformative initiatives being put in place by ALX Africa to massively accelerate the future of technology and education in Kenya and Africa.

A Journey of Purpose.

Our conversation began with Peter sharing his compelling journey from his early career in finance and marketing to his impactful tenure in management consulting with McKinsey & Company, the leading global management consultancy where he was one of their first employees for their Kenya office. He also spoke about his stint at Mama Mikes, one of Kenya's early e-commerce platforms where he evolved from being a Finance Manager to becoming a jack of all trades in a vibrant technology start-up environment It's this path that has shaped his interest in ALX Africa in Kenya, where he now dedicates his efforts to empower individuals through technology education.

ALX Africa: Pioneering Technology Education.

Peter elaborated on ALX Africa's mission, emphasizing its commitment to providing world-class technology training throughout Africa. ALX Africa stands out for its responsive and agile training programs, designed to equip young professionals with in-demand technology skills that promise a future-proof career. From Data Analytics to AI Career Essentials, ALX Africa is at the forefront of cultivating a generation of technology innovators and business leaders. He also shared how their education is holistic and includes soft skills to ensure that their students can excel in the workplace and in their communities at large by doing purposeful work that changes the world.

Empowering Kenya's & Africa's Youth Through Education.

One of the most inspiring aspects of our discussion was the success stories emanating from ALX Africa's programs. Peter shared how individuals have transformed their careers and lives, embodying the potential and resilience of Kenya's and Africa's youth. It's clear that ALX Africa's initiatives do more than just impart technology skills — they ignite a passion for innovation and drive socio-economic growth whilst equipping young Kenyans and Africans to become leaders in their workplaces and communities.

The Future of Technology Talent in Kenya and Africa.

Looking ahead, Peter revealed exciting developments on the horizon for ALX Africa. With an unwavering focus on adapting to the evolving technology landscape, ALX Africa is poised to introduce new programs and initiatives that will further solidify its impact on the continent's tech ecosystem. Indeed, the rallying call to action at ALX Africa is 'do hard things' which demonstrates their commitment to take on and execute big hairy audacious goals, or BHAGS. Indeed, the goal is to educate over 100,000 young people in Kenya this year alone which is no mean feat by any measure.

A Rousing Call to Action For Kenya & Africa.

Peter's parting message was a powerful one for aspiring technology professionals and entrepreneurs. He encouraged our audience to seize the opportunities in technology, emphasizing that the field offers endless possibilities for innovation, impact, and personal growth. He is passionate about the potential of Kenya's and Africa's young talent to make a global impact at scale to deliver world-class and competitive offerings across the board.

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On the 6th of February, 2024, I had the distinct pleasure of joining a vibrant community of Customer Experience (CX) enthusiasts and professionals for The World of CX Weekly Breakfast World of Conversations. I was invited to be a guest speaker by Dr. Lucy Kiruthu of Evolve CX who also expertly moderated our conversation for which I am very grateful.

This virtual event offered me a platform to share insights and engage in meaningful dialogue about the future of Customer Experience (CX) in Kenya, a topic close to my heart both as a consumer and as a digital marketing practitioner and entrepreneur as the Founder & CEO of Dotsavvy, a digital agency based in Nairobi, Kenya.

I'm delighted to delve into the insights shared during the webinar and reflect on the evolving landscape of CX in Kenya as follows:

The Evolution of Customer Experience in Kenya.

In my opening remarks, I emphasized the transformative impact of digital technologies on customer experience. As digital transformation practitioners, we're at the forefront of this evolution, witnessing how digital platforms and tools are reshaping the way businesses engage with their customers.

The shift towards a more digital, interconnected world is not just about technological adoption; it's about how these technologies enhance every interaction, making CX the cornerstone of business success in the digital era.

Key Trends Shaping CX in 2024.

Looking ahead, several trends stand out as pivotal in shaping the CX landscape in Kenya for 2024:

AI and Personalization: The integration of AI into CX strategies is becoming more sophisticated, enabling businesses to offer unprecedented levels of personalization. This year, we're seeing AI move from a behind-the-scenes role to a central player in customer interactions, promising more relevant, engaging, and intuitive experiences.

Omnichannel Experiences: Customers today expect seamless interactions across all touchpoints. The emphasis in 2024 is on eliminating friction and creating a cohesive journey, whether the customer is online, in-app, or in physical stores.

Data Privacy and Trust: With growing concerns over data privacy, businesses must prioritize transparency and security. This year is about building trust through clear communication around data use and implementing robust protection measures.

Human-Centric Workplaces: The correlation between employee satisfaction and customer satisfaction has never been clearer. As businesses, we're focusing on creating environments that prioritize well-being, growth, and inclusivity, fostering a culture where employees are empowered to deliver exceptional customer experiences.

Sustainability and Ethical Practices: Sustainability is no longer just an environmental concern; it's a business imperative. In 2024, CX will play a crucial role in aligning business practices with customer values around sustainability and ethics, strengthening brand loyalty and community engagement.

The Role of CX in Business Sustainability.

During the webinar, I emphasized the connection between CX and business sustainability. Without customers, a business cannot sustain itself, and in today's world, customers are increasingly aligning their loyalties with businesses that not only meet their needs but also reflect their values.

As we navigate 2024, it's clear that CX is not just about transactions; it's about building meaningful, lasting relationships that support both the business and the broader societal goals.

Looking Ahead,

I'm reminded of the power of conversation and community in driving forward the CX agenda. The insights and discussions from The World of CX Weekly Breakfast serve as a reference for all of us engaged in the digital transformation journey, highlighting the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.

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In this episode of the Pure Digital Passion podcast, we had an in-depth conversation with Michael Onyango, an accomplished practitioner in Kenya's and Africa's telecommunications sector. Michael has had an illustrious 20+ years career that has spanned telecommunications giants like Huawei, Alcatel-Lucent, Ericsson, and now Baicells Technologies. Michael shared his extensive journey from academia to the forefront of 5G innovation. Join us as Michael shares insights from his early days in Kenya, his educational pursuits in Telecommunications, Physics, and 5G Technology, to his current role as the Business Development Manager at Baicells Technology where he driving 5G deployment and connectivity initiatives. The following are some of the highlights from our conversation: Early Inspirations: Michael traces his roots back to Kenya, discussing how his upbringing and early exposure to technology fuelled his passion for telecommunications.Academic Foundation: He emphasizes the role of his education in shaping his career, highlighting his journey from Kenyatta University to the University of Nairobi and finally to IIT Roorkee.Professional Odyssey: Michael provides a walkthrough of his career, discussing the evolution of his roles, key learnings, and the impact he has made in the telecommunications industry.5G and Beyond: Delving into the specifics of 5G technology, Michael discusses the challenges, opportunities, and the future of telecommunications, underscoring Baicells' mission to "Connect the Unconnected."Vision for the Future: Michael shares his perspective on emerging technologies like IoT and Machine Learning, career advice for aspiring professionals, and his personal goals for the future.Michael Onyango's extraordinary journey speaks to the power of passion, education, and resilience in navigating the dynamic telecommunications landscape. His insights not only shed light on the technical intricacies of cutting-edge technologies like 5G networks but also may inspire a new generation to explore the boundless possibilities within the field. As we conclude this enlightening conversation, we extend our gratitude to Michael for his invaluable contributions and look forward to the continued evolution of telecommunications technology in Kenya, Africa, and beyond.

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In this presentation for the DX5 The Year Ahead 2024 Virtual Event, I shared my thoughts about the future of work in a world where everything will be impacted by Generative AI. I focussed primarily on the area of digital marketing based on my 20+ years of experience as the Founder & CEO of Dotsavvy, one of Kenya's and East Africa's first digital marketing agencies.

I explained the key steps that organizations need to take to make Generative AI work for them starting with a detailed audit of their current business processes and technology platforms to understand where they are first before starting to explore how they can start closing gaps using Generative AI-based solutions. Ultimately, the goal for organizations is to use Generative AI to become more creative, productive, efficient, and effective in meeting their mandate on a day-to-day basis.

In addition, I also shared what I call the FESSBeC benefits framework for Generative AI. FESSBeC is an acronym for Faster, Easier, Simpler, Smarter, Better, and Cheaper. The idea is that FESSBeC encapsulates the key drivers for Generative AI for organizations to be more successful and sustainable in the very disruptive future of work that will be largely enabled by Generative AI.

I also explained a quote I developed around Generative AI being, 'Don't give a human a robot's job'. This quote for me is essentially a call to action for organizations to seriously review how they operate on an end-to-end basis and see how they can automate business processes and technology platforms where possible and free up their human resource to focus on more strategic and impactful work.

Finally, I also shared my predictions for 2024 in terms of how Generative AI will impact businesses and the workplace with a primary focus on digital marketing scenarios. This looked at all areas from digital strategy formulation, creative design, content creation, software development, digital advertising, and finally digital analytics and reporting. I hope you enjoy watching or listening to this presentation.

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This is a conversation I had with Maina Chege on BizTalks recently where we spoke at length about the implications of Generative Artificial Intelligence or AI on the business landscape in Kenya. At the same, we delved into many of the scenarios where Generative AI is already upending the status quo with massive repercussions.

One such instance that we touched on is in marketing where many leading brands and organizations in Kenya are using AI-generated creative assets for their advertising campaigns to the detriment of stakeholders life film producers, graphic designers, professional photographers, actors, models, makeup artists, and others who would normally be employed for such work.

In addition, we also explored how AI has already become significant in medical diagnosis where it's lowering the cost of service delivery exponentially but also improving the quality of outcomes with live-saving value addition by improving the work of Doctors.

One thing that was clear in our conversation is that AI will have a long-term impact on business and the future of work in Kenya in a myriad of scenarios and everyone must realize that they need to prepare for this inevitability.

I hope you enjoy watching or listening to all that we covered in this insightful conversation on all things AI in BizTalks!

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This is a conversation that I had with BBC's Waihiga Mwaura on the Focus on Africa Show late last week. In our conversation, we explored the recent US Senate hearing where Meta's Mark Zuckerburg made an apology to the parents of minors who have been negatively impacted by social media platforms.

We also spoke about the implications for Kenya and Africa as well as the importance of safeguarding our children's digital future. Lastly, we reflected on how technology affects us all, from Kenya to the rest of the world, in creating a safer, more inclusive digital ecosystem for our children.

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This is a Twitter / X Space on digital marketing as an alternative form of employment for the youth, personal branding, entrepreneurship, and business opportunities that was hosted last week by Tanzania's Boresha Radio Station where I was invited to be one of the panelists for the same.

It was my first time being on a Twitter / X Space in Tanzania so it was highly appreciated to do so. I managed to share my insights based on my 25+ years of perspectives as a digital marketing entrepreneur and practitioner as well as a technology blogger.

The main focus of the Twitter / X Space was to provide practical insights on how the youth and others in Tanzania could use digital marketing and social media as a form of employment as well as entrepreneurship given the limited employment opportunities in the market.

If you are not from Kenya, Tanzania, or East Africa where Kiswahili is widely spoken you may not be able to understand all that is being said but the majority of the conversation is conducted in English. I hope you find it to be useful and enlightening as far as all things digital marketing and social media are concerned.

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In the latest episode of Pure Digital Passion, I had the pleasure of hosting Asif Khan, the founder and CEO of Ando Foods. Asif's journey is a remarkable tale of cultural richness, culinary innovation, and technological integration.

A Recipe Across Generations & Continents.

Asif shared the heartwarming story of Ando's famed Chicken Biriyani from their Mr. Khan brand, a recipe lovingly passed down from his Pakistani mother. This dish is not just a meal; it's a story of heritage and tradition, blending flavors across continents.

An Educational Japanese Journey & Its Influence.

Asif's transformative educational experience in Japan played a pivotal role in shaping his perspectives on design, photography, and film production. His experiences from Osaka offer a glimpse into the interplay of education and entrepreneurship.

The Strategic Birth of Ando Foods.

Asif recounted the strategic patience and planning behind Ando Foods' inception, a journey that began after his tenure at Java House Africa and navigating a non-compete clause. This story is a masterclass in strategic business planning with bootstrapping and a relentless focus on culinary excellence and delightful customer experience.

Rapid Expansion & Technology Integration.

The explosive demand for Ando's culinary delights led to a swift scale-up from his kitchen at home with his mother doing all the cooking at the start to a fully-fledged culinary enterprise that grew out of the COVID-19 pandemic period. Asif delved into the use of AI and machine learning in streamlining their operations, exemplifying innovation at its best.

Digital Marketing & Customer Experience.

Asif's deep dive into digital marketing and his role in enhancing customer experiences in the hospitality industry is both insightful and inspiring. His journey demonstrates the power of digital transformation in traditional industries with the potential to massively scale up from just one to eight culinary brands as of this writing.

Future Aspirations and Expansion Plans.

Ando Foods' vision extends beyond Nairobi and Cape Town, aiming to transform the culinary landscape in major African cities like Lagos and Kampala in the near future. The launch of their new mobile app is set to revolutionize how customers interact with their diverse culinary offerings.

A Special Offer From Asif & Ando!

As a token of appreciation for our audience on the Pure Digital Passion podcast, Asif has provided an exclusive discount code 'PDPANDO'. Use this on the Ando Foods mobile app to enjoy a special discount of Kes. 500.00 on your next order!

Join the Culinary Revolution.

Asif Khan's story with Ando Foods is more than a tale of business success; it's a narrative that weaves together culture, technology, and passion. His journey from learning in Japan to joining Kenya's banking sector and finally to the pinnacle of Kenya's and Africa's culinary scene is an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and food enthusiasts alike.

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Welcome to the latest episode of the Pure Digital Passion podcast. This podcast was recorded at Shujaaz Inc’s HQ at the Acacia Building in Karen Office Park, where I had the honour of interviewing Rob Burnet, the Emmy Award-winning Founder and Chairman of Shujaaz Inc.

Rob Burnet's Journey: From the UK to Kenya.

In this enlightening session, we delved into Rob's incredible journey from the UK to Kenya. We explored the early influences that shaped his perspective on media and social change, and the serendipitous story of how he landed in Kenya and became an integral part of the region's socio-economic fabric.

Founding of Kuona Trust and Transition to Shujaaz Inc.

Rob shared his vision behind the founding of Kuona Trust, highlighting its contribution to the Kenyan art scene. He then took us through his transition from Kuona Trust to establishing Shujaaz Inc, revealing the original concept of Shujaaz and its evolution into a powerful platform for youth empowerment.

Challenges, Successes, and Digital Impact.

Our conversation touched on the challenges and successes Rob faced in the early stages of Shujaaz. He emphasized the crucial role of digital channels in expanding Shujaaz’s reach and impact, leading to the prestigious recognition of two Emmy Awards.

Innovations: MESH and Beyond.

Rob detailed the inspiration behind MESH, addressing the needs of young entrepreneurs, especially during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. We also discussed the engagement strategies with Shujaaz's audience and the role of Hustla MBA within the Shujaaz Inc ecosystem.

Societal Impact and Future Aspirations.

Measuring societal impact and future aspirations were key topics, as Rob provided insights into his long-term vision for Shujaaz Inc and its ventures. He offered invaluable advice to young entrepreneurs across Africa, discussing how Shujaaz Inc helps in overcoming barriers to success.

Collaborations, Technology, and Cultural Significance.

Significant collaborations and partnerships were highlighted, showcasing how they have propelled Shujaaz Inc forward. The role of technology in scaling and impacting the ventures and the emphasis on celebrating diverse cultures and viewpoints were also key discussion points.

Legacy and Vision.

Rob concluded by sharing his vision for the legacy of Shujaaz Inc and his aspirations for social change in Africa.

Conclusion.

As we wrapped up this inspiring session with Rob Burnet, it was evident that his journey transcends beyond creating successful social ventures. It's about sparking a movement that empowers the youth to shape their future, redefining the landscape of social entrepreneurship and digital innovation in East Africa. Rob’s story stands as a testament to the power of vision, commitment, and the profound impact of empowering young minds.

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I'm delighted to share insights from a recent webinar, "Sustainable Digital Innovation – The Oxygen for Business Success," part of Springboard Capital's BizSmart Monthly Webinar Series.

Digital Innovation: Not Just a Side-Conversation.

The latest edition held on the 27th of November 2023 aimed to shift mindsets, emphasizing that digital innovation isn't just a side topic in business. It's as crucial as finance, business development, and human resources. In today's world, businesses at all levels must recognize the pivotal role of technology in achieving success.

A Journey Through the Digital Landscape.

As the Founder and CEO of Dotsavvy, I had the pleasure of presenting during this webinar session. We delved into the essence of digital transformation and its critical importance in today's business landscape, both in Kenya and globally.

The Roadmap: SOSTAC Digital Transformation Strategy.

A highlight of the webinar was introducing the SOSTAC framework, a comprehensive strategy for planning and executing digital transformation initiatives. This framework provides a structured approach, ensuring businesses can navigate the digital world with clarity and purpose.

Crafting Quality Digital Content.

We also explored the art of creating high-quality digital content. It's not just about making noise on digital platforms; it's about crafting content that resonates, engages, and converts. This is a game-changer in driving awareness and achieving business objectives.

High-Performance Digital Advertising.

The conversation then shifted to digital advertising. We discussed leveraging platforms like Google Ads and Meta Ads to create campaigns that don't just reach audiences but engage and convert them. It's about smart investment for measurable returns.

AI: The Future is Now.

A particularly exciting part of our discussion was the use of AI platforms like ChatGPT. These tools are no longer futuristic concepts but practical solutions available today, helping businesses in real-time decision-making and strategy implementation.

Engaging with Our Audience.

The session concluded with a lively Q&A, where we interacted and addressed specific concerns and curiosities. The engagement was fantastic, reflecting the enthusiasm and readiness of businesses to embrace digital innovation.

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I'm delighted to share insights and highlights from a panel discussion that took place on the 2nd of September 2023, at the International Christian Centre - Imara (ICC Imara).

The seminar, themed "AI-Driven Innovation for SMEs" featured a panel of distinguished experts in the field of business technology and digital marketing. This included Oscar Limoke, CEO of Pawa IT, and myself, Moses Kemibaro, Founder & CEO of Dotsavvy, expertly moderated by David Kiania which provided a platform for an in-depth exploration of AI's role in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Kenya.

The key topics we covered in our discussion were as follows:

AI in SMEs: Opportunities & Challenges.

We examined how AI is revolutionizing SMEs, offering unprecedented opportunities for growth and innovation. However, we also delved into the challenges, particularly in the Kenyan context, including resource limitations and knowledge gaps.

AI for Process Optimization & Cost Efficiency.

The conversation highlighted AI's potential to streamline business processes, enhance productivity, and significantly reduce operational costs, making it a game-changer for SMEs looking to compete in a digital economy.

AI-powered Product & Service Innovation.

We discussed examples of how AI is being used to innovate products and services, creating new market opportunities and enhancing customer experiences.

Ethical Considerations in AI Adoption for SMEs.

A crucial part of our discussion focused on the ethical implications of AI in business, emphasizing the need for responsible and transparent AI systems that respect privacy and promote trust.

Making AI Accessible.

As panelists, we shared insights on how SMEs can navigate the complexities of AI adoption, stressing the importance of making AI tools and knowledge accessible to businesses of all sizes.

Key Takeaways.

The seminar underscored the immense potential of AI in transforming SMEs. It's evident that AI is not just a tool for large corporations but a pivotal element for the growth and innovation of SMEs in Kenya and beyond:

• The necessity for SMEs to embrace AI for competitive advantage and sustainability.
• The importance of ethical considerations and transparency in AI adoption.
• The vital role of knowledge sharing and accessibility in democratizing AI for all businesses.

Conclusion.

The "AI-Driven Innovation for SMEs" seminar at ICC Imara was a groundbreaking event that provided valuable insights into the transformative power of AI in the business world. As we continue to explore the frontiers of digital innovation, it's clear that AI will play a central role in shaping the future of SMEs in Kenya and the rest of the world.

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In the November 2023 edition of EdTech Mondays Kenya, we delved into the pivotal topic of monitoring and evaluating blended learning models in Kenya's educational landscape.

The Shift Towards Blended Learning.

Recently, Kenya has positioned itself at the forefront of integrating technology into education. This transformation aligns with the Ministry of Education's vision of catering to a technology-driven, globally interconnected economy. Blended learning, which synergizes traditional tools like pen and paper with digital innovations, stands as a testament to this progressive shift.

The Topical Focus.

Our focus was on understanding and assessing the effectiveness of these blended learning models, particularly within the Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC). We aimed to shed light on how these models are shaping education in Kenya and what could be improved to benefit all stakeholders.

Panel Discussion Highlights.

We were honored to have insightful contributions from our panelists:

• Patrick Munguti from Kenya Connect,
• Vanessa Obura of Schoolapp,
• Faith Mutunga, a teacher at Nyaani Primary School.

Each panelist brought a unique perspective on blended learning. They discussed their roles, the impact of blended learning on the CBC, and the methods used to measure its success. The conversation touched upon the challenges faced in monitoring and evaluation, gaps in current models, and how these learning methods have enhanced student engagement and performance.

Key Insights.

• Challenges in Measurement: Faith shared the real-world challenges of measuring blended learning's success in her classroom.
• Evaluation Mechanisms: Patrick provided insights into the mechanisms in place for ensuring programs meet learning outcomes.
• Identifying Gaps: Vanessa highlighted the gaps in current blended learning models and suggested areas for improvement.

Future Directions.

The panelists agreed on the importance of refining monitoring and evaluation methods. They stressed the need for EdTech solution providers to consider these aspects critically to enhance learning experiences.

Closing.

This enlightening discussion reinforces our commitment to advancing education through technology. I encourage everyone to join this conversation and share your ideas on improving blended learning in Kenya using #EdTechMondays on Twitter.

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In our latest edition of the Pure Digital Passion podcast, we recently visited IXAfrica, Nairobi's newest hyper-scale data center located at the very heart of Kenya's vibrant Silicon Savannah. My engaging conversation with CEO Snehar Shah offered a window into the future of technology in Kenya and the broader East Africa region. IXAfrica, operational since October 2023, is not just a data center; it's an embodiment of the region's ambitious push towards the very cutting edge of digital transformation.

A Strategic Location & Size.

IXAfrica stands strategically near Nairobi's CBD and airport, spanning 17,300 sqm. Its substantial size, with a total footprint of 15,587m2 and a significant 6,621m2 dedicated to colocation space, underscores its capacity to host substantial technology infrastructure. This strategic positioning isn’t just about geography; it’s about integrating into the heart of Kenya's digital pulse, offering unparalleled access and operational efficiency.

Robust Power & Cooling Systems.

The facility is the epitome of modern design, boasting an 18.9mW IT power setup with dual supply utility feeds. The integration of 20 backup generator sets embodies reliability, ensuring uninterrupted operation even in unforeseen circumstances. The innovative Autonomous Indirect Air Conditioning (IAC) system, augmented by a variety of water sources, ensures that the data center operates under optimal environmental conditions, crucial for maintaining the integrity of hosted technologies.

Commitment To Sustainability.

In my discussion with Snehar Shah, what came to light is IXAfrica's unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship. The data center's roadmap includes integrating solar energy, marking a significant stride toward sustainable operations. Their holistic approach to sustainability extends beyond energy, encompassing water and waste management, and a procurement strategy focused on local sourcing. This not only minimizes their environmental footprint but also bolsters the local economy, creating a symbiotic relationship between technology and community, right here in Kenya!

Expansion & Growth.

The vision for growth at IXAfrica is as expansive as its infrastructure. The acquisition of 11 acres for a second data center campus, poised to be a 30MW+ facility, is a clear statement of intent for their ambitious scaling plans. This partnership with Tilisi Developments plc and a $50M investment from Helios Investment Partners are not just a financial endorsement; its a clear path to IXAfrica's potential to redefine data center services in Kenya and East Africa. This growth trajectory is not just about physical expansion; it’s about elevating East Africa's standing in the global digital economy.

Technical Excellence & Global Connectivity.

IXAfrica's capabilities are underpinned by its experienced and visionary leadership team and high-specification infrastructure, designed to meet the complex needs of modern computing. The alliance with the London Internet Exchange (LINX) is particularly noteworthy, as it places IXAfrica on a global connectivity map, ensuring a network that transcends continental boundaries. This global connectivity is crucial for businesses operating in today's interconnected world, making IXAfrica an indispensable part of the region's digital ecosystem.

Digital Transformation.

In Kenya's and East Africa's rapidly evolving digital ecosystem, IXAfrica positions itself as more than a data center - it’s a hub for digital transformation. Catering to the needs of cloud computing, digital transformation, and edge computing applications, the facility is not just hosting technology; it’s enabling and accelerating the digital metamorphosis of Kenya and East Africa.

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Yesterday, I had the privilege of moderating an extraordinary fireside chat organized by Mata at the Youth Connekt Africa Summit, held at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC) in Nairobi. The topic was none other than the fast-growing realm of the Metaverse and its profound implications for Africa's youth.

The Prodigy Behind the Lens: Walid Kilonzi.

One of the highlights of this session was conversing with Walid Kilonzi, the young and dynamic extended reality (XR) producer from Fallohide Africa. At just 25 years old, Walid's journey in XR began with the advent of the first Oculus VR headset when he was only 17. His remarkable achievements and contributions to the XR landscape are nothing short of inspiring.

Fallohide: A Pioneer in XR Solutions.

Walid's venture, Fallohide, has been making waves in the XR space, providing cutting-edge solutions in virtual reality (VR), mixed reality (MR), and augmented reality (AR). Serving a roster of prestigious clients, including multinational corporations like Nestle and Coca-Cola, as well as local government entities such as the Machakos County Government, Fallohide is a testament to African innovation and entrepreneurship.

The Fireside Chat: Exploring the Metaverse.

Our fireside chat, albeit missing the first few minutes in the recording, was a deep dive into the Metaverse's potential to revolutionize how we live, learn, and interact. We explored how this technology is not just a futuristic concept but a present reality, shaping sectors like healthcare, education, and commerce.

Engaging with the Youth and Meta Representatives.

The session was made even more engaging with questions from the youth attending the summit. Representatives from Meta, including Phil Oduor, Olivia Tchamba, and Sarah Muyonga, were also on hand, providing valuable insights, particularly where the intersection of the Metaverse and Meta's initiatives are concerned.

The Essence of the Discussion.

The discussion centered around how the Metaverse can be a catalyst for digital transformation in Africa. We delved into the challenges and opportunities it presents, especially for young creators and entrepreneurs like Walid. The session was not just about understanding the technology but also about envisioning how it can be harnessed for social and economic growth in Africa.

Sharing the Experience.

As we continue to navigate this digital era, conversations like these are vital in shaping our understanding and approach to emerging technologies. The Metaverse is here, and Africa is poised to be a significant player in this new frontier. For those who couldn't join us, I am excited to share the video and audio podcast of the session. While the recording starts a few minutes into the conversation, it captures the essence of our rich discussion.

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In a world rapidly embracing artificial intelligence (AI), Michael Michie stands out as a leader of innovation and inclusivity, particularly in the African tech landscape. I had the privilege of conversing with Michie at the recently held CIO 100 Symposium & Awards in Diani, Kenya, where we delved into his remarkable journey and vision for AI in Africa.

From Gaming to AI Leadership.

Michael's story begins with a childhood fascination with computers and gaming, a passion that ignited his journey in technology. He navigated through various roles, starting as a management trainee at M Oriental Bank and rapidly ascending to become the Chief Information Security Officer. Michael is reputed to be the youngest-ever CIO of a leading corporate enterprise in Kenya and East Africa. His career trajectory is nothing short of impressive, marked by his tenure as the CTO of bluBeetle AI and Solv Kenya, and his transformative work at TripleOKLaw.

Youngest Recipient of the Top 40 Under 40 Men Award.

In 2019, Michael earned the Business Daily Top 40 under 40 Men award, becoming its youngest recipient. This accolade was a recognition of his role in driving digital transformation within the legal industry, showcasing his ability to merge technology with traditional sectors.

Addressing Inclusion and Bias For AI In Africa.

Our conversation took a deep dive into Michael's concerns about Africa's current position in the fast-growing and evolving area of generative AI. He pointed out that platforms like ChatGPT, while revolutionary, often exclude African perspectives, leading to biases. Michael is actively working to change this narrative by advocating for an Africa-first approach to AI development.

The Akili Zetu Foundation.

As the founder of Akili Zetu Foundation, Michael is not just talking the talk but walking the walk. His foundation is a passionate testament to his commitment to nurturing AI talent and initiatives in Africa, aiming to bridge the gap in global AI development.

Philosophy and Advocacy.

Beyond his technical prowess, Michael is an advocate for dyslexic thinking and mental health in the workplace. He hosts the podcast 'Mind and Machine Africa,' where he discusses these issues, emphasizing the human aspect of technology.

Envisioning an Inclusive AI Future.

Michael's journey is far from over. He continues to serve on several advisory boards, contributing his expertise to shape the future of AI not just in Africa, but globally. His story is a beacon of inspiration, showing that with passion and determination, one can indeed make a significant impact.

A Leader's Legacy in African Technology.

Michael's journey and vision serve as a powerful reminder of the role technology can play in shaping societies. His efforts to bring an inclusive perspective to AI are not just commendable but necessary in ensuring a balanced technological future.

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In this episode of the Pure Digital Passion podcast, I had a conversation with Harry Hare, Founder & Chairman of DX5 where we delved into his remarkable journey as a pillar in East Africa's technology ecosystem. Recorded at the 15th edition of the CIO 100 Symposium & Awards a couple of weeks ago in Diani, Kenya, this podcast uncovers the resilience and visionary leadership of Harry, affectionately known as 'the godfather of technology in Kenya and East Africa.

The Early Challenges.

Harry's entrepreneurial spirit was tested early on. His first foray into the media business with publications like Microcomputer Guide and later PC World East Africa faced adversity due to Kenya's political climate in the '90s. Despite the challenges that led to the closure of these ventures, Harry's unwavering resolve set the stage for future successes.

Founding CIO East Africa & DEMO Africa.

Undeterred, Harry founded CIO Africa, a leading IT publication that has been shaping the technology discourse in East Africa and the rest of the African Continent for over a decade. His role in establishing DEMO Africa further highlights his commitment to elevating African tech startups on the global stage.

The Birth of DX5.

Harry's latest venture, DX5, symbolizes a new era in digital transformation in Africa. This innovative platform, emerging from the merger of CIO Africa and The Rebel Element, is focused on connecting and transforming the digital landscape across the continent.

Influencing Policy and the Technology Landscape.

Beyond entrepreneurship, Harry's work includes significant contributions to E-Government strategies with East African governments. His involvement in setting up the East African eGovernment Working Group and developing the East African eGovernment Framework showcases his deep understanding of the region's ICT needs.

A Legacy of Innovation and Empowerment.

Harry Hare's journey is more than a story of technological innovation; it's a testament to the power of resilience, vision, and leadership in shaping the future of technology in Kenya, East Africa, and beyond. His influence, spanning decades, continues to inspire and drive change across the continent.

Conclusion.

Join us in this insightful episode as we explore Harry Hare's entrepreneurial spirit, his triumphs over adversity, and his enduring impact on Kenya's and East Africa's technology landscape. His story, filled with lessons and inspirations, is priceless for aspiring technology leaders and entrepreneurs.

Listen to the podcast to dive deeper into the life and achievements of Harry Hare, a true technology visionary in East Africa.

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Yesterday evening, we had something of a very special meet-up or reunion with the pioneers of Kenya's Internet sector going back over 25 years ago at Africa Online. Africa Online was one of Kenya's original Internet Service Providers or ISPs of what started off as the dial-up modem via copper-based analogue landline and rain-prone variety around 1995. Africa Online was originally known as Karisi Communications and was founded by the iconic startup team of Ayisi Makatiani, Amolo Ngweno, and Karanja Gakio.

The backstory goes that Ayisi, Amolo, and Karanja were all in the US having completed their education there at the prestigious Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology or MIT when they decided to start a business to bring the Internet to Kenya and the rest of Africa. This was extremely prescient given that most of Africa was not even connected to the Internet on a real-time or 'live' basis and even email required using an archaic store-and-forward method via long-distance analogue modem dial-up connections several times a day between the US and Kenya!

I had the privilege of joining Africa Online after a short stint at Form-Net Africa which was also one of the first ISPs in Kenya back in 1997, working at their Mombasa office at the time. I was at Africa Online at a time when the Internet was so nascent in Kenya that our primary mission was to connect home and business users to analogue connections using slow modems and copper-based phone lines. Back then, fax machines and old-fashioned postal mail were the backbone of communications in Kenya, and mobile phones as we know them today simply didn't exist but the world and Kenya were on the cusp of a massive digital transformation as the Internet took hold of millions and eventually billions of users at scale.

In our Africa Online reunion yesterday, I managed to capture almost one hour of great memories and recollections from some of my former Africa Online colleagues and Kenya's 'OG' Internet pioneers. In attendance, and captured on this podcast, were Geoffrey Shimanyula who was one of the Sales Managers back then for corporate Internet solutions, Martin Wahogo who was one of Kenya's very first website developers, Kelly Kabiru who worked in sales like myself at both Africa Online and later 3mice Interactive Media for website services under the Internet Business Solutions or IBS Division, David Ochanda who was also a Sales Manager for corporate Internet solutions, and Patrick Malungu who was the overall Sales Director at Africa Online in Kenya and across six other markets in Africa.

In this podcast, you will hear amazing stories of what the Internet looked like over 25 years ago in Kenya. From the fact that an entire ISP in Kenya ran on a 64Kbps Internet connection from the now defunct Kenya Post and Telecommunications or KPTC, now known as Telkom Kenya, using the KENSTREAM data service to how a person called Randy Bush controlled the majority of the country code top-level domain names (CCTLDs) in Africa including Kenya's .KE and you sent him a text-based email template to get domain names registered that often took one or two weeks to get done since he was named in the US. You will hear about how inorder to demonstrate how a website worked a whole web server was picked from Africa Online's server room in Nairobi so that a demo could be made to a large prospective corporate client at their offices and at the same time this took down the majority of websites in Kenya to do so!

These were easily the Wild Wild West days of Kenya's now thriving and ubiquitous Internet sector and I am sure that for many of the young(er) listeners who hear this podcast, there will be many humorous and eye-popping moments. This is the story of the early days of Kenya's Internet and as we like to say here, tumetoka mbali! (we have come from far).

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In the latest episode of Pure Digital Passion, I had the unique opportunity to have a conversation with Jane Mukami, also known as the 'Fit Kenyan Girl' — an inspiring figure who seamlessly transitioned from the world of technology to becoming an award-winning health and wellness coach. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, self-discovery, and leveraging digital channels to create a global impact.

Early Life and Transformation.

Jane's journey began in Nairobi, Kenya, where she was born and raised. However, her path took a significant turn when she moved to Atlanta, USA, in pursuit of higher education. After a divorce in 2008, Jane found herself battling low self-confidence and depression. It was a challenging period, but it became the catalyst for her transformation.

From Technology to Wellness Transition.

Jane spent 18 years in Information Technology, specializing in Project Management for Software Development. Yet, a turning point led her to leave her corporate career behind and follow her passion for health and fitness.

The P.U.S.H Weight Loss Method.

One of the highlights of our conversation was Jane's proprietary nutrition-based weight loss method known as The P.U.S.H Weight Loss Method. This groundbreaking approach allows individuals to achieve successful weight loss without extreme exercise and while still enjoying carbohydrates. Jane's personal weight loss journey paved the way for this innovative method.

Digital Transformation and Impact.

Jane's story goes beyond personal transformation. She has successfully leveraged digital channels and social media to build her global brand. With over 310,000 active members in her Facebook group, "21 Days of Change," and other groups totaling 625,000 members, Jane has made a significant impact. In just four years, her community collectively shed an astonishing 250,000 pounds.

Achievements and Awards.

Jane's achievements have not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous awards and recognition, including the Health & Fitness Award at the 2019 ACHI Awards in Atlanta, USA, and being named a Top 100 African Woman by OkayAfrica in New York. Jane also received the Facebook Group Impact award at the OLX Social Media Awards in Nairobi and the Health & Fitness Coach Award at the Africa Women’s Leader Awards in Victoria, Seychelles.

Conclusion

Jane Mukami's journey from tech to wellness is a testament to the power of passion, determination, and the digital-first approach. Her story serves as an inspiration to those seeking to embark on a similar path of self-discovery and pursue their passions.

We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Jane for sharing her remarkable journey and insights with us on Pure Digital Passion. If you'd like to connect with Jane or learn more about her coaching services, be sure to check out her website at https://iamjanemukami.com and social media channels on https://www.instagram.com/FitKenyanGirl/ and https://twitter.com/fitkenyangirl

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In a captivating new episode of the Pure Digital Passion podcast, I had the honour of engaging with Elizabeth Okomba, the dynamic Deputy Director and Group Head of Customer Experience at NCBA Bank Kenya. Our conversation wasn't just a deep dive into customer experience (CX) strategies; it was a narrative of exceptional leadership and innovation, especially in the wake of NCBA's recent accolades at the ICX awards and Elizabeth's personal triumph in CX leadership.

Elizabeth's journey at NCBA began with her pivotal role as the merger lead between NIC Bank and Commercial Bank of Africa. She shared fascinating insights into the complexities and triumphs of this landmark merger, laying the foundation for a transformative approach to customer experience.

As we delved deeper, Elizabeth outlined the comprehensive CX strategy she championed. This strategy, intrinsically linked to NCBA's overarching vision, showcased her pioneering approach to leadership. She highlighted the significance of a solid governance framework and how customer feedback became the cornerstone of their service evolution.

Our discussion took an intriguing turn when we touched upon the digital innovations spearheaded by Elizabeth. Her efforts in revamping the contact center and integrating advanced CRM systems were not just about digital transformation but about fostering agility and a deep-rooted responsiveness to customer needs.

A central theme of our talk was Elizabeth’s commitment to cultivating a culture of customer-centricity at NCBA. Their customer promise, "We Know You, We Back You, We Will Wow You," goes beyond mere words, reflecting a genuine ethos that resonates through every employee’s work ethic.

Elizabeth also shed light on the metrics that underscored their success. The implementation of her strategies led to measurable improvements in customer satisfaction, as evidenced by NCBA's soaring Net Promoter Scores and a significant reduction in call volumes.

Adding to this, the recent accolades at the ICX awards where NCBA clinched three awards, and Elizabeth's recognition for CX leadership a few weeks ago, underscore the remarkable impact of their customer-focused initiatives.

As we concluded, Elizabeth shared her visionary outlook for the future of customer experience at NCBA and in the broader banking industry. Her dedication to ongoing innovation and excellence paints a bright future for customer experience in Kenya and Africa.

This episode is an essential listen for those intrigued by the intersection of technology, leadership, and customer experience. Elizabeth Okomba's journey with NCBA Group is a testament to the power of strategic foresight and customer-centric innovation in shaping the future of banking.

Don't miss this enlightening episode. Listen in for a journey through the realms of customer experience excellence with one of the industry's most influential leaders.

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This was a panel discussion on the 16th November 2023 titled 'Emerging Technologies: What's On The Horizon of Marketing' that was part of the Strathmore University Business School's Marketing Roundtable On Marketing In The AI-Tech World: Navigating The Digital Frontier. The panel had me, Moses Kemibaro, as Founder & CEO of Dotsavvy as well as Anthony Wesonga, Founder & CEO of Cadabra Creative. The forum was organized by students at Strathmore University who are members of the Strathmore Marketing Club.

The Marketing Roundtable provided a platform for cross-industry engagement in the field of marketing in Kenya and beyond with the objective of fostering the exchange of knowledge, experiences, and best practices among industry players and academia. It also provided Strathmore University's third and fourth-year students the opportunity to understand the industry as they endeavor to join the workforce as professionals.

In our panel, Anthony and I discussed a broad range of relevant marketing issues that included the impact of Artificial Intelligence or AI on marketing in the current context and what this means going forward as well as the need for marketers to become adept at learning and using technology to enhance their marketing campaigns. We also delved into areas such as data privacy and how consent has become essential to stay within legal regulations when marketing in a digital-first scenario where consumers are increasingly taking ownership of their data and identities.

Anthony and I also spoke about the evolving role of the modern marketer in creating distinctive marketing that goes beyond using the same creative and messaging for a diverse range of personas and target audiences whereas marketing technology now makes it possible to deliver highly personalized campaigns that resonate and ultimately deliver better brand and business results. Anthony also spoke at length about how technologies like Augmented Reality can be used to create groundbreaking marketing concepts that can transform how consumers engage with brands in novel ways.

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This was a panel discussion on monetizing domain names at the Kenya Domain Name System (DNS) Forum on the 2nd November 2023 that featured Mbugua Njihia, Venture Builder and Entrepreneur with Moses Kemibaro, the Founder & CEO of Dotsavvy, moderated by Gitau Muraguri, the Kenya Network Information Centre (KeNIC) Marketing Manager.

In the discussion, we delved into a lively conversation on the past, present, and future of domain names looking at it from both a local and international perspective. It was clear that domain names have massive potential for monetization if looked at from unconventional approaches. It is not enough to simply register a domain name but rather attaching utility to it such as a website or email address is what gives it its true value.

In our conversation, we also talked about the opportunity to create secondary markets for .KE domain names would enable domain name buyers and sellers to trade in their domain names so as to realize financial returns based on their real or perceived value in the same way that people in Kenya often buy and sell real estate.

In this context, we also explored the very real risks around domain names when it comes to brand equity and misuse where domain names can be registered by bad actors for ulterior motives too, and how KeNIC's dispute resolution mechanisms make this manageable. The reality is that as much as there are probably many untapped opportunities for domain name monetization there are also many inherent risks too.

Finally, we also looked at the merits of .KE domain names in ways that other top-level domains (TLDs) cannot compete such as the ability to secure preferred domain names easily due to their availability, affordability, and also the fact that Kenyan consumers, brands, and organizations are increasingly gravitating towards .KE domain names as a way of enhancing their monetization potential.

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In the October 2023 edition of EdTech Mondays Kenya, we continued the conversation started at the Kenya EdTech Summit, focusing on "Building Digital Tools That Empower Teachers." This is a topic close to our hearts, as we strive to bridge the gap between educational technology and its practical, impactful use in Kenyan classrooms.

Summary of the conversation:

Our esteemed panelists brought diverse perspectives to the table. Stephen Ahura, a teacher from Kenya High School, shared his experiences with integrating EdTech in teaching, discussing both successes and challenges. Fridah Ngari, the co-founder and COO of Ntemata, delved into the design process of EdTech tools, emphasizing alignment with the needs of Kenyan teachers. Tabitha Wairimu Ngugi from iHub discussed the considerations for adopting EdTech solutions and their cultural relevance to Kenyan education.

Key themes that emerged from our conversation included:

• The importance of aligning EdTech tools with the real-world needs of Kenyan teachers and students.
• Balancing technology with traditional teaching methods for holistic student development.
• The role of user feedback, particularly from teachers, in shaping and improving EdTech solutions.
• Ensuring that digital tools are user-friendly for teachers and effective for students.

Closing Thoughts:

The session reiterated the critical role of collaboration among various stakeholders in the EdTech space. It's clear that while technology can revolutionize education, the true essence of this transformation lies in our educators. They are the heart of education, and with the right tools, we can create an environment where every Kenyan learner thrives.

We encourage you to share your thoughts on how we can further empower teachers with digital tools in Kenya. Connect with us on Twitter using the hashtag #EdTechMondays and let's keep the conversation going!

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In the latest episode of the Pure Digital Passion podcast, we took a deep dive into the intricacies of the Kenya Revenue Authority's (KRA) recent Tax Amnesty program. This initiative has stirred the interest of many, particularly individuals and business entities keen on settling their tax obligations. To dissect this topic, we were joined by two distinguished guests: Alfred Sikuku of KRA's Waiver Coordination Unit and seasoned entrepreneur Mbugua Njihia, a stalwart in Kenya's tech industry.Meet the ExpertsAlfred Sikuku is an integral member of the Domestic Taxes Department at KRA, serving in the Waiver Coordination Unit. His insights stem from a profound understanding of Kenya's tax landscape and direct involvement in shaping policies that affect both individual taxpayers and businesses.Mbugua Njihia, with over two decades in the technological realm, has made significant strides in various sectors, including telecommunications, media, and financial services. His journey resonates with many entrepreneurs navigating the Kenyan business environment, especially concerning compliance and fiscal responsibilities.Unpacking the Tax AmnestyOur conversation kicked off with Sikuku explaining the essence of the Tax Amnesty. It's a lifeline, allowing taxpayers to settle their outstanding taxes while eliminating certain penalties and interests accrued up to 31st December 2022. Notably, the program aims to enhance compliance, widen the tax base, and foster a more amicable relationship between KRA and taxpayers.=Njihia, who brought the perspective of an entrepreneur, emphasized the program's impact on businesses' financial health. By clearing tax arrears, entities can reallocate funds, typically set aside for penalties and interest, towards growth-oriented activities. However, he stressed that this requires strategic financial planning and advisement, urging businesses to seek appropriate counsel.Dispelling the MythsOne segment of our discussion revolved around common misconceptions. Sikuku clarified that the amnesty isn't a 'tax avoidance' scheme, but rather a compliance initiative. He also corrected the notion about waivers, explaining that the amnesty covers specific penalties and interests, not the principal tax.Njihia pointed out the skepticism among entrepreneurs, mainly due to past experiences with fiscal policies. However, he acknowledged the positive shift in KRA's approach towards taxpayer engagement, making the process more transparent and accessible.Looking AheadDiscussing the future, both guests agreed on the program's potential to encourage long-term compliance. Sikuku mentioned ongoing strategies to simplify tax processes, while Njihia highlighted the need for continuous education and engagement among the business community.Following the recording of our podcast, KRA released new data underscoring the success of the Tax Amnesty program. As per their press release, KRA has collected Ksh 3.4 Billion from the ongoing tax amnesty program, with more than 17,000 taxpayers have applied for the amnesty. These participants are contributing towards an expected revenue of Ksh 10.5B.Moreover, KRA has identified 2.8M eligible taxpayers, indicating the vast scale of this initiative. The program is not just about the waiver but also serves as an avenue for KRA to foster trust and encourage compliance among millions of taxpayers. Additionally, there is an emphasis on resolving disputes outside of court, highlighting KRA's commitment to building more amicable relationships with taxpayers.ConclusionThe KRA's Tax Amnesty program represents a significant step towards flexible tax regulation, recognizing the challenges taxpayers face while underscoring the importance of compliance. As our insightful session concluded, it became evident that such initiatives, paired with taxpayer education, are pivotal for economic growth.--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/moseskemibaro/message

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Recently, I had the privilege to attend and record the launch event of GA ECO DRIVE Insurance Cover by GA Insurance. This product is not only a first in Kenya but also a pioneer in the African insurance market, serving as an example of innovation and foresight in the industry.

GA ECO DRIVE: Comprehensive EV Insurance

The GA ECO DRIVE insurance policy is meticulously crafted for EV owners, providing protection tailored for unique EV-related risks. From safeguarding your vehicle’s battery and charging cable to offering unprecedented coverage like cyberattack protection and Autonomous Driving cover, this policy is your ticket to a worry-free EV driving experience.

Key Benefits:

Battery Cover: Assurance for your EV’s crucial component.

Charging Cable & Station Cover: Protection against theft or accidental damages to cables and your private charging station.

Out of Charge Recovery: Never fret about running out of charge unexpectedly.

Cyberattack Coverage: Navigate the digital roads with confidence.

In-Car Entertainment & Navigation System Cover: Enjoy your in-car tech perks securely.

Third-party Coverage: Assurance for injuries or damages due to charging cables.

Kenya's EV Insurance Opportunity

With the African Electric Vehicle Market poised to burgeon from $11.94 billion in 2021 to an astounding $21.39 billion by 2027, the launch is timely. Specifically in Kenya:

• Over 1,350 EVs are registered as of February 2023, with projections for substantial growth.
• Government plans indicate that by 2025, 5% of all registered vehicles will be electric.
• Nairobi’s existing power infrastructure can efficiently support a significant switch to electric two-wheelers and 10% of other vehicles, laying the groundwork for a more extensive EV adoption.

Why Is this Launch Important for Kenya?

The introduction of GA ECO DRIVE is not only timely but also aligns perfectly with the Kenyan government’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions. With the transport sector being a significant contributor to carbon emissions, adopting electric vehicles is a step in the right direction. However, the lack of specialized insurance products has been a barrier to EV adoption, and GA ECO DRIVE is here to fill that gap.

A Panel Discussion Worth Every Minute

The launch event wasn’t just about the unveiling; it was also a powerhouse of knowledge and insights through a panel discussion that was nothing short of enlightening. The panel brought together industry stalwarts, each providing a unique perspective on the EV and insurance landscape in Kenya.

Panelist Insights:

Sandip Bhadury, GA Insurance CEO, provided valuable insights into Insurance Distribution.

Rishi Kohli, Founder & CEO of Fika Mobility, enlightened us on the challenges and prospects of EV Manufacturing.

John Msingo, CRO of EVChaja, dove deep into EV Charging Infrastructure, a critical component for the proliferation of electric vehicles.

Jihan Abass, Founder & CEO of Lami Technologies, explained the Insurtech approach to EV insurance, which is crucial for the digital age.

Dustin Kahler, Director of Mobility of M-Kopa, shared thoughts on EV financing.

Karanvir Singh, CEO of Yego, discussed the potential and future of ride-hailing for electric vehicles.

With Ezekiel Macharia, the Chief Actuary and MD at Kenbright Insurance Brokers, expertly moderating the panel, the discussion was rich, engaging, and informative.

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Beem offers an omni-channel communication platform that brings together USSD, Airtime, Mobile Payments, SMS, WhatsApp, Facebook & Instagram channels to engage, verify, authenticate, notify or pay customers. Beem is a Pan-African startup with a presence across more than 25 African markets. Beem envisions an Africa powered by enterprises, empowered through technology. Beem strives for this by enabling enterprises to interact and transact with customers across Africa using SMS, USSD, airtime, chat, and other products.

Beem's flagship offering is Moja, a complete business messenger for sales and services. Moja combines the power of WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, Google, and SMS in one inbox for an entire team. Moja also brings together powerful additional tools such as a CRM, automation, tagging, reporting, chat payments, and chatbots to supercharge sales & deliver amazing customer service.

In our conversation, Taha shared his background as an engineer who graduated from Lafayette University in the US before he joined Cap Gemini as a Technology Consultant. However, he opted to return home a few years later to his home country Tanzania where he worked with his parents in a computer shop in Dar Es Salaam's bustling commercial hub, Kariakoo.

It was during his time working at the computer shop that the idea of what would become Beem was birthed from the need to market computers to University students in Dar Es Salaam that saw Tara using SMS sent from a single basic features phone was successful in generating sales. Taha then created one of Tanzania's first local SMS marketing platforms called 'Bongo Live' in 2011 which grew to become quite successful.

However, over 10 years later, Taha has pivoted the Bongo Live offering into a comprehensive platform of messaging capabilities through an integrated web-based dashboard for all popular platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger and still SMS. This 'pivot' led to a rebrand of Bongo Live to Beem due to the new business focus and model. Have a listen to hear the incredibly insightful and inspiring journey that Taha and now Been is on to revolutionise conversational commerce in Kenya, Africa, and the rest of the world!

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In September 2023 we had a special edition of Edtech Mondays Kenya that saw us travel to the expansive terrains of Kajiado County where we witnessed how digital literacy is being made possible amidst its arid landscapes, and vibrant Maasai culture.

About Kajiado County

Kajiado, a sprawling county of over 21,000 km squared, is home to over 1.1 million Kenyans who are predominantly from the Maasai community. In this semi-arid region where pastoralism is a way of life, and wealth is often counted in cattle and children, we discovered an amazing organization that brings hope and innovation in education for learners at primary and secondary school levels.

Innovations at PICO (Pastoralists Integrated Concerns).

In Kajiado, introducing digital solutions is no small feat, given the challenges with electricity and internet connectivity. Here, I posed a critical question: How does one implement digital literacy as a core competence under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) in such remote areas? The answer lay in the ingenious interventions by PICO.

Harryzon, with a radio and flash disk in hand, illustrated and explained the workings of PICO’s Radio Class Program. He highlighted the importance of documenting indigenous knowledge and introducing digital devices to learners. The radio classes, conducted by Calistus, weren’t just theoretical; we observed an actual class in session with engaged learners absorbing the knowledge being shared.

Olkiramatian Primary School’s Leap Towards Digital Literacy

At Olkiramatian Primary School, Calistus shared his observations on the program's impact on learners, noting increased engagement and participation. When asked about his experience with more engaged learners, Calistus expressed a sense of satisfaction and achievement through innovation and creativity.

The school's headteacher, Mrs. Mwende, shared insights on garnering support from both teachers and parents for these digital initiatives. Through strategic buy-in, the school has successfully implemented tools that not only facilitate curriculum learning but also enhance digital literacy, even in marginalized areas.

Empowerment At Oldonyonyokie Girls Secondary School

Our journey then led us to Oldonyonyokie Girls Secondary School. Here, PICO has deployed interventions specifically designed for secondary school students. Through innovative digital devices, girls in the school have found joy and engagement in learning, even in subjects like Mathematics.

The school’s headteacher, Mrs. Grace, shared insights on the introduction of digital tools like Mwalimu Digital and their positive impact on learning. She observed notable changes in the girls’ attitudes towards STEM subjects since incorporating these digital tools, highlighting the success and importance of integrating such technology into their educational environment.

A Digital Literacy Revolution In Kajiado

Looking back, it’s inspiring to see how, through creativity, innovation, and commitment, digital literacy is blossoming even in the most unlikely places. This journey showcased the unyielding efforts of organizations like PICO, educators, and the community at large.

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In this recent electrifying episode of the Pure Digital Passion podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Rishi Kohli, the dynamic CEO and co-founder of Fika Mobility. Through an insightful dialogue, we uncovered Fika's grand vision to drive sustainability, efficiency, and accessibility in Kenya’s bustling Boda Boda sector through innovative electric motorcycles.

The Genesis of Fika Mobility

Everything starts with inspiration, and for Rishi, it was the urge to make a significant positive impact on people’s lives. Fika Mobility, born out of over three years of meticulous market study, aims to offer Boda Boda riders an economically viable energy platform, significantly contributing to the proliferation of electric vehicles in Kenya and across the African continent.

Crafting the Electric Motorcycle

Fika Mobility isn’t merely introducing electric motorcycles; it's unveiling a new wave of intelligent commuting solutions. With a lithium-ion battery powering the initial model, riders enjoyed an impressive range of around 100 kilometers. The upcoming iteration promises to be leaner, equipped with a bigger battery pack, and is designed based on invaluable insights gained from the initial pilot program.

The Battery Swap Model

Understanding that time is a precious commodity for riders, Fika Mobility implemented an innovative battery-swapping model. It significantly reduces the downtime associated with standard charging, which usually takes 4 to 6 hours. With strategically located swapping stations, riders can effortlessly exchange their depleted batteries for fully charged ones in a matter of minutes, ensuring they are always on the go.

Economically Sound Solution

In a market where cost is king, Fika's electric motorcycles are poised to be game-changers. With an affordable price, they align closely with the most popular petrol-powered motorcycles in Kenya. The real magic unfolds in the operating costs, where riders can anticipate savings of as much as 60% compared to traditional petrol motorcycles, according to Fika Mobility’s thorough analysis.

Financing Plans & Real-Time Tracking

Tailoring to the varied needs of riders, Fika Mobility has a suite of financing plans from various microfinance providers in the market, making the adoption of their electric motorcycles even more accessible. Furthermore, the integration of GPS technology into the batteries allows for real-time tracking and monitoring, enhancing the ownership and riding experience substantially.

Conclusion

As we wrapped up our illuminating session with Rishi Kohli, it was evident that Fika Mobility is not just an electric mobility company; it’s a movement, a vision, and a commitment to driving change on the roads of Kenya. With a deep understanding of the market, an unyielding commitment to innovation, and a firm eye on sustainability, Fika Mobility is indeed paving the way for an electric motorcycle revolution in Africa’s transport sector.

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eCommerce Day Africa 2023 (www.ecommerceday.africa) is a networking and training event aimed at accelerating and making online businesses more professional. The first edition of eCommerce Day Africa took place from the 20th to the 22nd of September 2023 in Nairobi, Kenya, using a hybrid format. The event was made possible by the eCommerce Institute with the support of USAID, the Alliance for eTrade Development (eTrade Alliance), and the American Chamber of Commerce in Kenya (AmCham).

I represented Dotsavvy where I made a presentation on social media and content marketing at eCommerce Day Africa on Thursday the 21st of September 2023. This was part of the afternoon session titled 'digital commerce pillars: marketing and commercial' that focused on tips to attract and improve your clients using search engine optimization (SEO), Search Engine Marketing (SE)M, Digital Advertising Strategies, and Social Media.

My presentation looked at the digital landscape in Kenya, how social media has become central to current consumer behavior, what sort of digital content performs best from a digital marketing perspective, and how to use generative artificial intelligence (AI) platforms like ChatGPT to create engaging social media content and calendars.

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As the digital revolution continues to reshape industries across the globe, East Africa has emerged as a hotspot for world-class data centre solutions, led by industry giants like Africa Data Centres (ADC). During the recent International Telecoms Week Africa (ITW Africa) held at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Nairobi, I had the distinct pleasure of conversing with Dan Kwach, the Managing Director for ADC in East Africa. His insights into the trajectory of data centres in the region were nothing short of enlightening.

A Glimpse into the Past.

Dan's journey in the data centre realm is deep-rooted, tracing back to his days at Kenya Data Networks (KDN) before its acquisition and evolution into what is now known as Liquid Intelligent Technologies. His hands-on experience with Kenya's first Carrier grade Commercial Data Center allowed him unparalleled expertise in Project Management, Business Case Development, and Product Development, shaping the commercial strategy of data centres in the region.

ADC: At the Helm of Data Solutions in Africa.

ADC stands tall as Africa’s largest network of interconnected carrier- and cloud-neutral data facilities. With over 50 carriers calling ADC home, including significant internet exchanges such as JINX, CINX, and KIXP, ADC has positioned itself as a pivotal player in the data storage and security sector.

Businesses, today, understand the paramount importance of choosing the right location for their critical data. ADC has made this decision easier, bringing global competencies to local markets, and ensuring rapid and secure data centre services spanning the African continent. With facilities that are constructed and operated up to the highest global standards, ADC offers businesses, big or small, unparalleled peace of mind.

ADC's NBO1 Nairobi Data Centre: A Jewel in East Africa.

Located strategically at Sameer Industrial Park, Nairobi, ADC's NBO1 is the most connected data centre in East Africa. Not only does it offer access to carriers across Kenya, but it also provides vital fibre routes to a plethora of East African nations. The Nairobi facility stands as a testament to ADC's commitment to excellence, being the first in East Africa to receive a Tier III certification from the esteemed Uptime Institute and the region's first to be PCI DSS Certified.

ADC’s vision extends beyond mere business objectives. Recognizing the transformative power of digitization, ADC is resolute in uplifting the economies of Kenya and its neighbours. Sustainability remains at the forefront of ADC’s operating strategy. Their water-free policy at the Nairobi hub and the adoption of solar power highlight their commitment to a green future.

Final Thoughts.

As East Africa continues to navigate the digital waters, it is heartening to see institutions like ADC leading the charge. Dan Kwach’s rich history and insights into the sector are a testament to the region's immense potential and the bright digital future that awaits.

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In a delightful reunion of sorts, I recently had the distinct pleasure of being a guest on the "Ali Talks Tech" podcast hosted by none other than Ali Hussein, a long-time friend and a significant figure in the East African tech scene. We traced back our roots to our days at 3mice Interactive Media, where we were once colleagues in business development at the turn of the century.

Our conversation was not just a trip down memory lane but also a deep exploration of my nearly 30-year journey in the dynamic world of technology, internet services, and digital evolution in Kenya, East Africa, and the rest of Africa. It's a story that began at Form-Net Africa (later rebranded to Kenyaweb) where I ventured through the early days of dial-up internet services and expanded into digital marketing, blogging, and personal digital branding.

From Bedroom to Boardroom: The Dotsavvy Story.

In 2002, I embarked on what would be one of the most significant chapters of my career — the inception of Dotsavvy, East Africa's pioneering digital business agency. Started in my bedroom, Dotsavvy has not only survived but thrived, growing into a formidable force in the industry, defying challenges and navigating through storms that saw many other entities falter.

However, the journey hasn't been without its trials. Around 2009, the landscape changed dramatically, with traditional advertising agencies venturing into the digital realm, creating unprecedented competition. It was a period of reflection and recalibration, leading me to step back from the day-to-day operations at Dotsavvy and take on new challenges with Naspers and later, InMobi and the Perform Group.

Nurturing A Personal (Digital) Brand.

Parallel to my corporate journey, I embraced the world of blogging, sharing my insights and perspectives on the evolving tech landscape in East Africa through MosesKemibaro.com. This personal venture blossomed into a significant platform, contributing considerably to building my personal brand in the region.

The "Silicon Savannah" and The Future Ahead.

As Ali and I reminisced and delved into the current trends, we couldn't help but marvel at the remarkable growth of the digital ecosystem in Kenya and East Africa. The "Silicon Savannah", centered largely in Nairobi, is now a bustling hub of innovation, fuelled by the adoption of smartphones and high-speed internet services serving millions of users at work, home, and on the move.

We discussed the increasing avenues of funding available to startups today, a stark contrast to the early days when businesses like Dotsavvy had to rely heavily on sales to stay afloat. Moreover, the rise of social media in the past decade has paved the way for influencers and key opinion leaders to shape the narrative and build substantial personal digital brands.

Despite the advancements, I believe that the digital ecosystem in our region is still in its nascent stage, with an accelerating growth trajectory. The infusion of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the modern workplace promises to redefine the future of work, fostering greater efficiency and productivity on a global scale. It's a paradigm shift, akin to the transformative impact the internet has had over the past 25+ years.

In Conclusion.

My conversation with Ali was not just a reflection of past achievements but also an optimistic gaze into the future, where AI platforms like ChatGPT are emerging as a disruptive force, reshaping the status quo and forging a new pathway in the digital era. Watch or listen in on this enlightening conversation on "Ali Talks Tech", as we reminisce, analyze, and envision the vibrant future of the digital ecosystem in Kenya, East Africa, and beyond!

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On the morning of Monday the 11th of September 2023, I had the incredible opportunity to join the 'Your World' show on NTV Kenya, hosted by the insightful Winnie Lubembe.

In this session, we delved deep into the nuances of navigating the high cost of living in Kenya, focusing on the innovative buy now pay later (BNPL) consumer technology financing partnership between Samsung Kenya and ABSA Bank Kenya.

In attendance, were Rehema Kamau Juma from Samsung Kenya and Pauline Munyoki from ABSA Bank Kenya. Here are the highlights of our enriching discussion:

The Inception of a Financing Partnership.

Rehema shared the blueprint of Samsung's vision behind this partnership. It goes beyond just a business venture - it’s a pathway to empower Kenyans to embrace state-of-the-art technology without the financial strain.

Strategic Advantages Unveiled by Samsung Kenya and ABSA Bank Kenya.

Pauline illustrated how ABSA Bank Kenya's mobile device financing method unveils a realm of strategic advantages for consumers, especially when eyeing high-end devices like the Samsung Fold and Flip 5.

Why ABSA Bank Kenya Became Samsung Kenya's Choice.

Rehema narrated the genesis of Samsung choosing ABSA Bank Kenya as a financial partner, weaving technology with adaptable financial solutions, enhancing customer joy, and ushering in a futuristic consumer experience from their Buy Now Lipa Pole Pole credit card and digital financing offering.

A Consumer-Centric Approach.

Pauline enlightened us on how this partnership stands as a beacon of hope amidst economic hardships, offering advantages that transcend traditional purchasing methods, and fostering a win-win situation for Kenyan consumers.

Predicting Market Responses.

Both Rehema and Pauline gave their insights on the potential ripple effect this financing model could have on the market adoption rates for high-end as well as low-end devices, sketching a promising trajectory for the Kenyan tech landscape.

Feedback & Future Prospects.

We also discussed the overwhelmingly positive feedback received from consumers who have availed of this financing option and how it sets the stage for future initiatives, with Pauline hinting at exciting prospects on the horizon.

Conclusion.

As we traverse through economically challenging terrains, it's heartening to witness Samsung Kenya and ABSA Bank Kenya fostering a narrative of financial flexibility and inclusivity in Kenya. Stay tuned as we explore this journey further, promising exciting times ahead for technology enthusiasts and everyday consumers alike. To a future where technology is within everyone's reach.

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In an increasingly digital-first world, connections mean everything. This was underscored vividly in my recent conversation with Nurani Nimpuno, the Head of Global Engagement at LINX, on the Pure Digital Passion podcast recorded on 13th September 2023.

In this insightful episode, we delve into the intricate world of Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) and explore what LINX's foray into Nairobi signifies for the region's digital landscape. Before you tune into the rich conversation, let me set the stage with some vital context about LINX and their groundbreaking venture in Nairobi.

LINX: An Architect of Global Connections.

Tracing back to its humble beginnings in 1994, LINX, a pioneer in fostering internet connections, has grown into a mammoth entity connecting nearly 1000 networks globally. Its journey from a small ensemble of UK-based ISPs to a global nexus reflects its monumental efforts in revolutionizing internet access and connectivity. Now, extending its expansive 950-network global membership to Nairobi, LINX brings along its rich industry experience and world-class engineering to foster a digital ecosystem that's poised for growth.

Nairobi: The New Frontier.

Nairobi stands as a vibrant hub in East Africa, pulsating with digital potential. LINX's entry into this dynamic market, marked by its inaugural presence at the IXAfrica Data Centre and Africa Data Centres NBO1 facility, is not just a business move; it's a step towards knitting Kenya more closely into the global digital fabric.

In our podcast, Nurani shares insightful perspectives on why Nairobi is a vital cog in East Africa's digital ecosystem. She paints a vivid picture of a city burgeoning with digital opportunities, boasting fast-growing fibre connectivity that extends throughout the region and reaches across continents to Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

Peering into the Future with LINX Nairobi.

As LINX crafts a future-proof interconnection platform in Nairobi, it's essential to highlight its recent partnership with Africa Data Centres. This collaboration is set to amplify the telecom sector's growth, with Nairobi morphing into a hotspot for hyperscalers and cloud services.

Nurani and I navigated through the intricate terrains of internet exchange points, peering agreements, and the burgeoning digital market in Nairobi and the broader East African region as well as the Pan-Africa market. This conversation serves as a great starting point for anyone looking to understand the seismic shifts in global digital connectivity and Kenya's and East Africa's evolving role in it.

As you gear up to listen to our conversation, keep in mind that this is more than a dialogue; it's a glimpse into the future, a future where Nairobi stands as a central node in the global digital network, facilitating seamless connections and fostering unprecedented growth.

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In the latest episode of the 'Pure Digital Passion' podcast, we took a deep dive into the heart of fintech innovation in East Africa. The session, held at the buzzing SemaBox at Baraza Media Lab in Nairobi on the 5th of September 2023 brought together James Kabuthi from Visa East Africa and Jimmy Mwang'ondi from Loop DFS, a subsidiary of the NCBA Group.

From the Visa Everywhere Initiative (VEI) to the power of strategic partnerships, we unravelled the avenues that are setting the stage for an exciting fintech future in the region. Here’s a glimpse into the spirited discussion we had:

Our Guests.

James Kabuthi, the Head of Products & Solutions for Visa in East Africa, opened up about his role in an organization that transcends beyond being a mere logo on our credit and debit cards. He detailed how Visa is fostering innovative solutions, catalyzing emergent fintech trends, and why a focused initiative like VEI in Kenya holds paramount importance.

Opposite him was Jimmy Mwang'ondi, the Deputy Director of Growth B2B - Digital Business at NCBA Group. Jimmy shed light on the journey of Loop DFS, their overarching brand narrative and objectives, and how their collaboration with VEI aligns perfectly with their vision for innovation and growth.

Deep Dive into the Visa Everywhere Initiative (VEI).

As we delved deeper, James provided a panoramic view of the global footprint of the VEI before zoning into its profound impact and trajectory in the Kenyan and East African context. He articulated how partnerships like that with Loop DFS are amplifying the influence of VEI, making a resonant impact in the local and regional fintech community.

Loop DFS: Fostering Innovation and Nurturing Relationships.

Jimmy spoke at length about the inquisitive spirit at Loop DFS, which fuels their search for innovative solutions. He discussed the potential attributes they were looking for in VEI participants and their plans to foster and nurture relationships with fintechs even post-VEI.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Fintech in Kenya and Beyond.

The discussion peaked with both guests casting their eyes toward the future, offering advice to budding entrepreneurs aiming to venture into platforms like VEI. They also shared their insights into the evolving nature of fintech in East Africa, discussing opportunities to deepen and expand collaborations in upcoming editions of VEI.

Closing Thoughts.

As we wound up this enlightening session, the emphasis remained on the synergy of vision, collaboration, and innovation. The conversation underscored the importance of blending global expertise with local dynamism to create avenues for unprecedented growth. The future of fintech in East Africa is bright, with platforms like VEI playing a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory.

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This was a special edition of EdTech Mondays Kenya hosted and recorded at the inaugural Innovate Nairobi event which was focussed on Nairobi's thriving EdTech ecosystem, unearthing its opportunities and challenges.

An Evolving Landscape: Silicon Savannah.

In the pulsating nerve center of digital innovation that is Nairobi, famously known as the ‘Silicon Savannah’, we convened a dynamic panel of experts to dissect the present state and envisage the promising future of the EdTech landscape in Nairobi County. Before we delve deeper, let's acknowledge the robust support extended by the Nairobi County Government, a catalyst in fostering a conducive environment for the blooming EdTech sector.

Our Esteemed Panelists were as follows:

• Ahmed Muhammed Abdi, Chief Officer, ECD and TVET at the Nairobi County.
• Clara Muthoni Njeru, Researcher and Product Designer, Education Design Unlimited.
• Isaac Nyangolo, Co-Founder & CEO, Zeraki.

Nurturing an Inclusive Learning Ecosystem.

During our enlightening session, we ventured to unravel the tapestry of Nairobi’s EdTech ecosystem, paying homage to the vibrant diversity of our learners, teachers, and schools. As we journeyed through the discussion, the spotlight was keenly focused on the transformative role of EdTech in fostering inclusive learning experiences.

A Symposium of Insights: Guiding Questions.

As we navigated through the discourse, our panelists addressed several poignant questions, offering fresh perspectives on the evolution of EdTech in Nairobi County. From bridging educational gaps given Nairobi's socio-economic diversity to engaging teachers effectively in the integration of EdTech, the session was a powerhouse of insights.

For Clara, the discussion unveiled the bright spots of technology in education, touching upon the collaborative efforts needed to align EdTech solutions with the diverse learning needs prevalent in Nairobi.

Ahmed underscored the initiatives by the Nairobi County Government to incorporate EdTech in schools, aligning seamlessly with the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).

Isaac illuminated the conversation with examples of innovative EdTech solutions implemented in Nairobi schools, a testament to the forward momentum in the educational landscape.

Interactive Audience Session.

Engagement reached its peak during the audience interaction segment, where our engaged attendees raised critical questions, adding depth and dimensions to the ongoing discussion. A testimony to the collective aspiration for an inclusive and vibrant educational ecosystem.

A Glimpse Into the Future.

As the session drew to a close, our panelists shared their exciting visions for the future of Nairobi's EdTech landscape, a kaleidoscope of opportunities and areas burgeoning for development.

Parting Words.

As we wrapped up this enriching edition of EdTech Mondays Kenya, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our panelists, whose dedication and insights significantly enriched our conversation. Our appreciation extends to the Nairobi County Government and the community of educators, parents, caregivers, and EdTech entrepreneurs who tirelessly work towards propelling the sector to new heights.

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In this edition of the Pure Digital Passion podcast, we're diving deep into the Worldcoin saga, a digital currency project that has seen an explosive rise in Kenya, followed by suspension by the Kenyan Government due to concerns surrounding its operations and concerns around data privacy in recent weeks. This podcast aims to provide listeners with an objectiveunderstanding, sifting through the myriad of opinions, reports, and sentiments, to get to the truth of the matter.

In this interview, we had a candid and illuminating conversation with Alex Blania, CEO and co-founder of Tools for Humanity, and a pivotal figure behind Worldcoin. With a rich background in physics and computer science, and having led significant technological advances, such as the development of the Worldcoin Orb, Alex brought an inside perspective to our conversation. We go to delve into the heart of Worldcoin's operations, challenges, and aspirations.

As the digital landscape evolves in Kenya and globally, it is crucial to foster a space of understanding, collaboration, and transparency. I'm genuinely looking forward to seeing how Worldcoin navigates its journey in Kenya and the global stage as the underpinning mission is really compelling and inclusive. Remember, the conversation doesn't stop here. We'd love to hearyour thoughts, so do share them with us. Let's keep the dialogue open andinformed.

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In this conversation, we delved into the promising world of African digital content with Johannes Lutainulwa from Smart Foundry on their Rifaly for Business offering that was recently launched.

Rifaly is revolutionizing how content creators and media publishers across Africa can monetize their content at scale whether it's newspapers, magazines, radio, podcasts, or video.

Johannes was able to shed light on the unique value proposition of Rifaly, differentiating it from global giants like YouTube and Spotify. He highlighted Rifaly's robust model that benefits both individual content creators and businesses, offering features like backdated content access, dedicated account management, and an intuitive user experience.

As Rifaly plans its expansion across Kenya and the wider African continent, the discussion touched on its mission, anticipated challenges, and the bright future of digital content in Africa.

Dive in to discover the evolution of African digital content and how Rifaly is championing this transformation. You can also sign up for Rifaly for Business at https://www.rifaly.com/business for a 7-day free trial and access digital content from Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.

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Kenya stands out as a hub of innovation, and in this conversation, we get up close and personal with two entrepreneurs at the forefront of digital transformation that is sweeping across Kenya. Nelson Aseka of AIfluence and Radhika Bhachu of Ndovu, recently emerged as winners at the Kenya edition of the Visa Everywhere Initiative.

The Visa Everywhere Initiative is a global startup engagement program that tasks start-ups to solve payment challenges of tomorrow, further enhance their own product proposition and provide visionary solutions for Visa and their vast network of partners. Therefore, Nelson's and Radhika's accolades recognize their game-changing solutions in local and global payments and commerce.

In our conversation, Radhika introduced Ndovu as a pioneering fintech firm aimed at addressing gaps in the realm of wealth management. Their model focuses on democratizing wealth management for both individuals and businesses, tapping into the massive potential fintech has for empowering MSMEs.

On the other hand, Nelson shed light on AIfluence's unique proposition. Positioned as a transformative player in the influencer marketing arena, AIfluence harnesses the power of AI to identify trusted voices for brand promotion, ensuring authenticity and tailoring solutions for diverse global audiences. Both startups underscore the richness of Africa's tech landscape, embodying innovation, passion, and purpose.

What's remarkable about Nelson and Radhika is their shared journey through the Visa Everywhere Initiative. Their stories were filled with challenges and triumphs. While AIfluence's double win at both the Kenya Finals and the Audience Favourite award at the CEMEA finals positions them for future prospects, partnerships like the one with Visa greatly amplify Ndovu's mission and reach.

Both Nelson and Radhika spoke candidly about their inspirations, the challenges faced, and how the competition has shaped their visions for the future. The future of fintech and digital solutions in Africa, according to them, is bright and full of promise. When I asked them about their visions for the next 2 to 10 years, they painted vivid images of growth, expansion, and deeper impact. They see their companies not just as businesses but as catalysts for change in the African digital landscape.

As we concluded our enlightening session, one thing became clear: Kenya's digital leadership in Africa and globally is unmatched. With leaders like Nelson and Radhika at the helm, the future looks nothing short of revolutionary!

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I had a conversation with Rehema Kamau from Samsung Kenya and Linda Kimani from ABSA Bank Kenya on Samsung’s newest foldable phones and ABSA Bank's innovative Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) credit card financing proposition, 'Buy Now Lipa Pole Pole'.

Rehema shared the advancements and unique offerings of Samsung's latest generation of foldables and flips - the Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Z Fold 5. The devices are available for pre-ordering till the 24th of August 2023 at select Samsung stores and online portals in Kenya and as of 25th of August 2023, the actual phones will be available for purchase at over 100 stores in Kenya as well as online.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 is retailing at Kes. 325,000 and comes with Galaxy Watch 5 (this offer is exclusively for Pre Orders). The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 is retailing at Kes. 193,000 and comes with Galaxy Buds 2 pro (this offer is exclusively for Pre Orders). The devices can also be purchased online as follows:

Samsung Brandcart - https://samsung.brandcart.co.ke

Phoneplace Kenya - https://phoneplacekenya.com

Masoko - https://www.masoko.com/

Linda shed light on ABSA Bank's Buy Now Lipa Later proposition that aligns with the bank's vision of empowering Kenyans. It facilitates consumers to buy now and pay later, simplifying the purchasing process, especially for high-end devices like Samsung’s latest offerings.

Kenyan consumers can purchase the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Z Fold 5 in installments of up to 12 months using ABSA Credit Cards. ABSA Bank’s collaboration with Samsung makes owning the future of smartphones easier and more accessible.

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Earlier this week a petition was submitted to Kenya's parliament to ban TikTok in Kenya. This triggered a massive debate in parliament with our lawmakers being clearly divided on the pros and cons of the same whilst triggering tremors throughout Kenya's vibrant digital ecosystem. I recently had the privilege of discussing this hot-button issue with Richard Kagoe on BBC's Focus on Africa podcast which you can listen to here.

Kenya, as surprising as it might sound to some, stands tall as a global leader in TikTok engagement! The recently published digital news report by the Reuters Institute revealed a jaw-dropping statistic: 54% of Kenyans are actively using TikTok for various purposes. And if you think this is merely for fleeting entertainment, think again. Nearly 29% of these users lean on the platform for their news consumption. That's right, over a quarter of our nation's TikTok users are not just there for the dances and challenges; they are there to stay informed.

On a global scale, TikTok's momentum shows no signs of slowing down. Boasting close to 1.7 billion users worldwide, the platform has transformed from a trending app to a significant pillar of the digital landscape. However, TikTok is no stranger to controversy having been banned outright by India a few years ago, and is currently being considered to be banned in the US as well on grounds of digital privacy and national security concerns.

The petition spearheaded by Bob Ndolo underscores a very palpable concern. The unregulated expanse of TikTok in Kenya has become a cauldron for content that some argue, challenges our nation's fundamental cultural and religious fabric. The debate isn't just about censorship but about preserving our nation's ethos in the age of rapid digital globalization.

However, there's another side to this coin. The app, beyond being a space for entertainment, has provided a livelihood for numerous young Kenyan content creators. It's a platform where creativity is celebrated, stories are told, and voices are amplified. The economic implications of a potential ban could reverberate through a demographic that has harnessed TikTok for economic empowerment.

To ban or not to ban? The question remains. But one thing is clear: we must navigate this path judiciously, considering both our cultural values and our aspiration to be a forward-looking, digitally inclusive nation.

For a more in-depth discussion on the proposed TikTok ban and its implications, tune in to the podcast here where Richard and I delve deep into this matter. It’s a conversation you won’t want to miss!

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Kenya has one of the best education systems in Africa due to substantial and holistic investments by the Government to enhance teaching and learning for all stakeholders. Even as participation, quality, equity, and inclusion for learners have generally improved in Kenya, access and outcomes for rural learners, girls, learners with disabilities and other vulnerable populations continue to lag significantly in the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs). 29 counties in Kenya are part of the ASALs which occupy over 80% of Kenya’s landmass, and are home to roughly 36% of the population, 70% of the national livestock herds, and 90% of wildlife.

According to a June 2022 World Bank brief, most counties in Kenya exceed 12 expected years of school. According to the same report, however, the expected years of schooling in ASALs are as low as 6.5 years – meaning very low learning outcomes are concentrated in a few counties in Kenya’s ASALs. Some of the key factors behind this trend include the harsh climate, lacking physical and digital infrastructure, cultural values and practices, language barriers as well as the literacy levels of parents and caregivers.

In this edition of EdTech Mondays Kenya, we explored opportunities to improve equity and inclusion in education for learners in the ASALs with a focus on North and North Eastern (N/NE) counties which include Wajir, Marsabit, Garissa, Mandera and Isiolo, Lamu, Samburu, Tana River, Turkana, Wajir, and West Pokot. At the same time, we discussed how technology-enabled education can be used to help close these gaps.

Our panelists were Benta Grace Otsyeno, the Training Coordinator at Impact(Ed) International, Virginia Ngindiru, the Director of Programs at Zizi Afrique, and Noel Cheboryot, the Senior ICT Officer at National Council for Nomadic Education in Kenya (NACONEK).

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Dr. Alice Munyua (Alice) is someone I have known for the better part of two decades a pioneer and integral part of Kenya's digital ecosystem in a myriad of ways. I really got to know Alice when we both served on the board of the Kenya Network Information or Centre (KeNIC) which is Kenya's .KE Country Code Top Level Domain (CCTLD) Registry over a decade ago. Since then, Alice has taken up a number of different roles and is currently the brainchild and Director of the Africa Mradi initiative at Mozilla Corporation (Mozilla).

Mozilla's Africa Mradi enables it to use its unique identity as both a technology company and movement-building organization to commit resources and collaborate with diverse communities to invest in the growing Africa-led technological innovation sector. One cannot understate how important Africa Mradi is as an initiative from Mozilla that is changing how the technology ecosystem in Africa can be more inclusive and empowering for all stakeholders.

Indeed, this podcast only happened due to the fact that Alice was in Nairobi at the time on the back of the Mozilla Africa Mradi Innovation Week that took place at Nairobi's Arboretum on the 26 and 27th June 2023 in partnership with the Nairobi City Country Government. The event aimed to promote innovative solutions from startups and developers in various fields including Health-tech, E-government, Edu-tech, Fintech, Agri-tech, Gaming/Creative Cybersecurity, etc.

In this conversation, we got to discuss Alice's origin story from growing up in Kenya to her first job in Rwanda, being the architect of Kenya's first ICT policy, being a key driver behind the domestication of the Dot Africa domain initiative, and all the way to where she is at Mozilla leading the Africa Mradi program. Alice is unapologetically keen on ensuring Kenya and the rest of Africa gain from the global technology ecosystem in a way that is inclusive and equitable for all stakeholders via Mozilla's diverse and relevant offerings!

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It's strange to think that for most of my life and my work that everything I have done seems to be underpinned by technology and for the most part the Internet. I had the unusual early start at a very young age being exposed to computers via the Sinclair ZX Spectrum in the early eighties and thereafter my father's Amstrad PC. I also learned how to code in BASIC and later in DBASE3 and DBASE4 which built my understanding of how to make a computer do what I wanted.

I attended computer classes as a pre-teen as I recall and thereafter used them during my time in high school and university. I tried to start what could have been Mombasa's first locally based Internet Service Provider (ISP) in the mid-nineties but funding and business partner disagreements meant I had no choice but to seek employment at an ISP.

I was quite fortunate to work at Form-Net Africa and later Africa Online as two of Kenya's first ISPs connecting selling to and connecting customers to their services via analogue modems on copper-based KPTC phone lines. I then got an early seat in the Internet content space by learning how to create websites and later selling website services to a myriad of Kenyan, Pan-African, and global organizations.

At some point, I joined 3mice which was arguably Kenya's first digital marketing agency in the late nineties, and after working there I founded Dotsavvy which is a digital agency I have run for 20+ years to date. I also worked at formidable Internet-aligned businesses like Naspers, setting up Dealfish to become East Africa's leading online classifieds platform in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

I worked at other Internet-first businesses like InMobi, a leading global mobile ad network, the Perform Group (the business behind Goal.com), and Opera, the business that developed and markets one of the most popular mobile web browsers in Africa, Opera Mini.

In a nutshell, this conversation has it all! There are early lessons like how successfully selling seafood produce shaped my views on entrepreneurship and how personal digital branding via blogging, podcasts, etc has been a professional game-changer for me. Have a listen and I hope you find it useful in some way.

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The objective of Kenya’s Ministry of Education (MoE) is to provide quality education and training that prepares learners to competitively thrive within a highly integrated, technology-oriented, and information-based global economy. As a result, technology is being used in educational institutions to support the teaching, learning, and management processes.

Blended learning is an approach to education in which traditional in-person classes are supplemented or supported with technology and learners take advantage of both online and offline resources. Pedagogy is the combination of teaching methods (what instructors do), learning activities (what instructors ask their students to do), and learning assessments (the assignments, projects, or tasks that measure student learning).

From this perspective, for blended learning to succeed, the pedagogical approach must be adapted accordingly for teachers or educators to do so successfully. This means that they need to acquire the necessary teaching skills and use technology-based tools to ensure quality learning outcomes.

In the June 2023 edition of EdTech Mondays Kenya conversation, we explored the current state of blended learning in Kenya with a focus on the CBC from the perspectives of teachers as well as EdTech solution providers who make it all possible. The panel that I moderated included Lucy Wamiru Gichira, a teacher from Kirinyaga County, Jennifer Wanjiru Mureithi, a Curriculum Support Officer (CSO) from Inoi Zone Kirinyaga Central, in Kirinyaga County, and Lucy Maina from IREX.

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This a conversation I had with Colin Herbert Howell & Natascha Trivisas from HID, a global leader in trusted identity solutions on their latest innovations in document design, biometric technologies, and secure issuance solutions that are changing the game when it comes to design, security, enrolment, authentication, and verification.

Colin and Natascha were in Nairobi in late May 2023 for the ID4Africa Conference. ID4Africa is a non-governmental organization dedicated to assisting African nations develop and strengthen public and technical systems for identity-related solutions and applications to serve the development and humanitarian action.

Colin is Senior Designer at HID where he designed the award-winning Estonia Passport, won the London Design Gold award for the UK Passport, and leads professional design workshops around the world. He has also spearheaded the design of many African passports as well as government documents. Most notably, he has been involved in the design of the Kenya Shilling banknotes and identity documents including passports for Rwanda, Kenya, and Sierra Leone.

Natascha Trivisas is Global Marketing Communications Director - Citizen ID at HID. She has over 13 years of experience in Marketing Communications, PR, Media, Government Relations, and Product Marketing within the B2B and B2G industry with expertise in identity and biometric solutions. She is focused on seeing the big picture while giving the right amount of attention to the small details and has a passion for design.

During our engaging conversation, I got incredible insights into what HID does from a Citizen ID perspective in Kenya and the rest of Africa as well as the sheer scope and complexity of what is required to make HID's offerings in this area work securely and reliably on a global level. We also got to discuss HID's robust and award-winning document designs with integrated chips that store the holder’s biometric data, color portrait, and HID’s exclusive technologies which combine five methods of security that make documents like passports extremely difficult to reproduce.

What HID does in Africa matters given that from birth to death in any context your identity matters. for a myriad of reasons and use cases. You can't do many things if your identity is not verifiable and authentic. HID is working to ensure that some 500 million people in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) without any form of official identification as well as African governments will have the tools needed to issue secure, official IDs, drivers licenses, and passports, thus allowing citizens to prove their identities and access essential services like healthcare, education, and finance.

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A week ago I met Bede at ARC Ride’s facility in Nairobi to have a conversation and record a podcast on the two significant milestones they have achieved this year. The first is ARC Ride’s impressive footprint of 42 fully operational and automated battery-swapping stations in Nairobi and outlying areas. This is surprising in that ARC Ride has invested massively to ensure that if you so choose to acquire or finance any of their electric bikes you can rest assured that finding a battery swapping station should not be a major hassle.

Even more impressive is that ARC Ride’s battery-swapping stations are fully automated. What this means is that all you need to do is use their mobile app to locate the nearest one where there is a fully charged batter which you can then access with the same and it will automatically open the box where you load the depleted battery and thereafter it will automatically open the box where a fully charged battery is available. This is seriously impressive given that you do not need to interact with a person when doing the whole process of swapping batteries. This is also made possible by the fact that the battery-swapping stations are loaded with IoT (Internet of Things) so that they can be monitored and managed remotely.

The second big development is that after iterating for the last couple of years to come up with a unique and market-appropriate electric bike form that would be appealing and robust as well (aka built for Africa), ARC Ride launched the Corbett, their first available electric bike. The Corbett has an interesting look with bright colors, and stubby or chunky wheels, and also looks like a crossover between a regular motorcycle and a scooter. The Corbett looks quite unique and like nothing else on the road in Kenya if you ask me.

The thing about is even if you do buy a Corbett you will never own the battery. This means that you can only ever pay to use a battery but never own it. At the same time, the only way to charge the battery is to go to anyone of their battery-swapping stations so you can’t actually head home or to work and then charge it using your own source of power. This is clearly going to irk many would-be customers but do bear in mind that the core customer base that ARC Ride is going after for the Corbett is the boda boda riders who would buy it to ferry customers all over Nairobi.

Anyone can purchase the Corbett for Kes. 180,000. However, if you need to finance it as would many boda boda riders then you can do so for Kes. 450 per day over a number of years. In addition, since you never actually own the battery you will never have to worry about the battery losing performance over a period of time. The other thing that is interesting about ARC Ride’s battery swapping rates is that you can pay Kes. 350 a day for unlimited battery swaps or you can pay Kes. 185 for a single swap — the choice is yours. A fully charged battery will get you around 60 km of commute distance with the Corbett.

Another development that ARC Ride is putting in place is that they have signed a good number of well-known and reputable financing companies to help customers acquire the Corbett at competitive rates. The Corbett has impressive acceleration but a modest top speed of 60 km/h but can also carry 200 KG of load. Bede also told me that the Corbett is able to save boda boda riders around 30% on the operating costs of a conventional motorcycle for the same distances, not to mention that it is less prone to breakdowns due to fewer moving parts.

Given that there are over 1.2 million boda bodas in Kenya the potential upside is massive. What needs to happen next week is to get enough people using the Corbett which will inspire others to consider the same.

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Since the start of 2023, Edtech Mondays Kenya has explored a range of conversations such as mainstreaming hybrid models of learning, improving foundational literacy and numeracy for young learners, and most recently the role of digital literacy as a crucial component of 21st-century skills.

Throughout our conversations, the lack of ICT infrastructure and connectivity, such as electricity, Internet access, WIFI networks, and mobile networks was a key discussion area on what is needed to make technology-enabled education accessible to all learners in Kenya.

Even though all 47 counties in Kenya have fiber-based connectivity, last-mile links to rural parts of sub-counties remain inadequate. The 2019 census report also showed that rural internet access was 13.7% compared to urban Internet access, which was 42.5% – more than thrice that in rural areas.

Although the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated that technology-enabled education is possible when schools closed in 2020, many marginalized and rural learners did not benefit due to inadequate ICT infrastructure and connectivity, as well as the high costs for access.

In the May 2023 edition of Edtech Mondays Kenya, we took a deep dive with our panelists into the current state of ICT infrastructure and connectivity in Kenya for education to better understand where we are and what needs to happen to close the digital divide for all learners. Our panelists were Rose Wanjohi, the Principal Programmes Officer at the ICT Authority, Ben Roberts, the Group Chief Technology and Innovation Officer at Liquid Intelligent Technologies, and Dr. Tim Kelly, the Lead Digital Development Policy Specialist at the World Bank Group.

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This is a Twitter Space that was held on the evening of Thursday the 18th of May 2023 by Liquid Intelligent Technologies in Kenya with the topic 'The State of Connectivity In Kenya & Its Effect On SMEs'. The Twitter Space was hosted and moderated by Nixon Kanali of TechTrends Media and featured a panel comprising Fiona Ngaruro, Ben Roberts of Liquid Intelligent Technologies, and Moses Kemibaro of Dotsavvy. The Twitter Space was centered on the following;

• Raise Awareness of the Connectivity Gap in Kenya: Create awareness about the importance of addressing this gap for overall socioeconomic development and how players such as Liquid Intelligent Technologies can help businesses achieve this.
• Link Advanced Connectivity to Trade and Economic Growth: Illustrate how advanced connectivity is vital for initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and its potential to boost trade across the 54 countries in Africa. Highlight the connection between high connectivity and the growth of SMEs, which are critical for boosting a country's GDP in which Liquid is playing a huge role.
• Showcase the Benefits of Advanced Connectivity: Discuss the tangible benefits that advanced connectivity can bring to Kenyan SMEs. Explain how improved connectivity can empower these businesses, enhance their operational efficiency, expand their market reach, and contribute to economic growth.
• Highlight the Role of Digital Technology in Transforming Lives: Emphasize how embracing digital technology on a wider scale can bring about significant positive changes in Kenyan communities. Showcase real-life examples and success stories that demonstrate the transformative power of connectivity in areas such as education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and access to information.

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In the March 2023 edition of EdTech Mondays Kenya, we explored foundational literacy and numeracy: a child’s ability to read basic texts, write clearly and solve basic mathematics problems such as addition and subtraction. We explored how technology can be a key enabler for foundational literacy and numeracy and how hybrid models of learning can improve foundational learning outcomes.

Foundational literacy and numeracy are essential skills for people to navigate the world around them. However, in a world that is increasingly digitized – where government services, banking, and many jobs require citizens to use digital tools – traditional literacy and numeracy are not enough. Digital literacy is required for people to successfully and safely exist in a digital society.

The Ministry of Education and the Ministry of ICT and Innovation have both emphasized the importance of digital literacy for learners and citizens and are making large investments to ensure all Kenyans have the knowledge and skills to be able to navigate this new digital world.

Since 2015 the Digital Literacy Programme, the government’s flagship e-learning initiative, has aimed to increase the digital literacy of learners through ICT integration in public schools. Additionally, digital literacy is one of the Competency-based Curriculum’s seven core competencies - signaling its importance to success in both learning and life.

In the April 2023 edition of EdTech Mondays Kenya, we went deeper into understanding how digital literacy is a crucial component of 21st-century skills for learners of all ages. The panel for the session was as follows:

Brian Kenor: Monitoring Evaluation Accountability and Learning (MEAL) Coordinator, Save The Children International

Lilian Kawira Mutegi: Founder, Uptyke Consulting

Moses Kemibaro: Session Moderator

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In the February 2023 edition of EdTech Monday Kenya we explored the topic on the mainstreaming of hybrid models of learning as a means of ensuring that all learners in Kenya can be accommodated in a learning environment that can be in-person or virtual. In hybrid learning, educators can teach remote and in-person students at the same time using tools like video conferencing to make this viable and sustainable. Hybrid learning is increasingly being seen as a way of ensuring that all learners can be accommodated in a learning environment that can be in-person or virtual.

During last month’s episode, we established that hybrid models of learning in Kenya can give learners an opportunity to better understand educational content outside the traditional classroom experience and also offer a way of learning that does not require them always be in a classroom. In addition, it also allows parents and caregivers of young learners to play a more engaged role in their education leading to better participation and understanding. We also learned from last month’s episode that educators need to be trained and equipped to deliver hybrid learning models effectively and efficiently whilst adopting new teaching techniques and educational technologies.

In the March 2023 edition, we will look to go further in understanding how hybrid learning models can be used to improve foundational literacy and numeracy among young learners in Kenya. Foundation literacy and numeracy are broadly defined as a child’s ability to read basic texts and solve basic mathematics problems such as addition and subtraction. It also enables children to become independent and engaged readers and writers who can transition from 'learning to read' to 'reading to learn' and from 'learning to write ' to 'writing for academic success and pleasure'.

In Kenya, when it comes to foundational literacy and numeracy, a learning assessment by a non-governmental organization called Uwezo in 2021 showed that 60 percent of grade four learners could not read a grade three appropriate text. In 2014 one out of every 10 Kenyan children completed primary school without having fully mastered class two skills, the report showed. These basic skills are necessary for children to understand and engage with the material they are taught in school and to acquire technical and higher-order skills as they progress in their studies. Lost learning that takes root in the earliest years of children’s lives fails to narrow in the following years.

Hybrid learning models can help close the gaps for young learners in Kenya, where foundational literacy and numeracy is concerned. Moreover, the need for foundational literacy and numeracy skills has acquired greater prominence in our increasingly complex and rapidly changing digital-first world, where individuals continuously need to expand their knowledge and learn new skills to keep up with the pace of change. Our conversation will explore how the uptake of technology-driven education or EdTech in the form of hybrid models of learning can increase the quality of education at foundational levels for literacy and numeracy. Our panelists for the session were:

Christine Akello - ICT in Education trainer, Global E Schools and Communities Initiative

Abdinoor Alimahdi - Founder, M-Lugha

Anne Kibara - Teacher, Ng’undu Primary and Junior Secondary School

Session Moderator - Moses Kemibaro

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This is a conversation I had with Sajid Vayani who is the Sales Director of iColo at the telco-centric East Africa Com 2023 Conference that was held in Nairobi this week at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Upper Hill. Sajid has an interesting background in that he originally started his career in accounting and at some point managed to pursue his passion for acting by attending a Master's Degree Program in the UK.

He then came back to Kenya and was recruited as a Management Trainee at iColo 7 years ago as Kenya's first carrier-neutral data center business. Sajid then rose through the ranks to eventually occupy his current role as the Sale Director of iColo which currently has multiple data centers in Kenya and Mozambique as of this writing.

iColo is the leading carrier-neutral data center provider operating state-of-the-art facilities in Kenya and Mozambique serving clients such as telecom carriers, Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and peering points, IT & cloud service providers, content providers, enterprise and financial services providers. iColo is owned by Digital Realty which has a global data center community of 300+ facilities across 28 countries on 6 continents.

In our conversation, Sajid shared many insightful perspectives on what sets iColo apart in an increasingly competitive market in Kenya for data centers that have become increasingly important due to the accelerated digital transformation that the COVID-19 pandemic precipitated for organizations of all sizes. Have a listen!

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Hybrid learning Involves the combination of in-person learning and remote learning and is not necessarily taught in a traditional classroom. It is increasingly being seen as a way of ensuring that all learners can be accommodated in a learning environment that can be in-person or virtual.

Almost 1.13 million children of primary school age (6 to 13 years old) were out of school in Kenya, according to an Out-of-School Children Initiative study conducted in Kenya in 2020. The situation was worsened due to the impact of COVID-19 related school closures, followed by drought in many of the focus counties. As a result, the pandemic became a key catalyst in the adoption of hybrid learning in Kenya. This transition was largely enabled by the proliferation of affordable and capable smartphones as well as other consumer electronics such as radios and televisions to receive educational programming.

EdTech has proven it can make hybrid learning more accessible and inclusive for learners at all levels in Kenya but at the same time its adoption and sustenance require a myriad of factors to be aligned in a way that makes it practical and successful. Key considerations such as access to technology infrastructure and human resources are some of the aspects that play a key role in the enablement of hybrid learning at scale.

Going forward, what are some of the key considerations for educational systems in Kenya to ensure that hybrid learning can be adopted more effectively and ensure its resilience and longevity for learners across all spectrums, geographies, and socioeconomic statuses in the country? What are some of the barriers to making this possible and at the same time what are the key enablers that can ensure its viability in the long term? What sort of fundamental changes need to be made to make hybrid learning accessible to learners in Kenya at scale?

In this conversation, we explored the challenges and opportunities of hybrid learning for learners in Kenya, and what this means for today and in the future. Our panelists were Wanjiku Gathoni, Regional Manager of Impact and Evaluation at Worldreader, Danielle Ochieng’, Education & Research Consultant at Ubongo, and James Kamau Gitiro, HP Idea Fellow, Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert and Teacher at Manyatta Primary School in Laikipia County.

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In case you missed it, this is a radio interview I had with 98.4 Capital FM's June Gachui and Martin Kariuki on their show, The Jam, this past week on Wednesday the 9th of February 2023. The conversation we had was quite different from what I expected in that we went a lot deeper, and, wider on the topics we covered. 

For me, in some respects, it was probably the first time I shared some personal details about myself in the media like the early days of my entrepreneurship journey at Dotsavvy, the ups and downs of being an entrepreneur for over two decades, my love of Arsenal football club, as well as the way afrobeats music seems to have become an obsession from me after doing lots of trips to West Africa in the past and eating far too much jollof rice!  

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Chief Nyamweya is an Illustrator, Content Creator, and Writer who I have known for the better part of a decade since the early days of Nairobi's iHub where we used to regularly attend events. I lost touch with Chief for a fair bit of time until sometime during the COVID-19 pandemic when through pure blind luck he and I met as part of a series of interviews for a documentary on the past, present, and future of Kenya's digital ecosystem. That particular documentary never got produced or aired as we expected but as events would have it our paths crossed recently when he was busy creating some media visibility for his latest creative endeavor in late 2022, known simply as Trust.

Trust is a graphic novel, motion graphic, and NFT collection that follows a storyline that reimagines Kenya. As far as I know, Trust is probably the most innovative creative initiative that I am aware of that even includes an NFT from a Kenyan perspective making it very much in line with the world's fast-growing but quite nascent Web3 paradigm. Trust is available in hard copy to purchase online or offline, is available online as an interactive motion graphic, and as an NFT collection that you can purchase using crypto like Ethereum.

In our conversation, Chief shared his life journey to date as someone who loved to doodle as a youngster, pursued education and a career as a lawyer and a chartered accountant before returning to his first love of creative art and design - talk about making a pivot. He also pursued his current vocation by getting a degree in the US as well as setting up a creative agency, Freehand Studios, that would explore African-themed stories and concepts from a localized perspective, delivered across digital and traditional mediums. Ultimately, all these twists and turns led him and his collaborators, Anne Connelly and Sarah Mallia, to create Trust.

Trust is set in an alternative African nation to tell the story of Moraa who is a young activist who together with the Sankofa collective use the power of blockchain technology to protect their community from cultural and ecological destruction. Trust uses the power of storytelling to explore themes of corruption, cultural & ecological preservation, historical injustices, communal trust, and land ownership. Trust is groundbreaking in the subject matter it covers as well as the source material which will be very familiar to most Kenyans albeit very revisionist in its execution. You can find out more about Trust at https://www.trustgraphicnovel.com/

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The International Day of Persons with Disabilities was the 3rd of December 2022 which aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities. Last year’s theme was “transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fuelling an accessible and equitable world”.

Challenges for learners with visual impairments in Kenya include poor communication, poverty, long distances to school, lacking basic education resources like teachers, and low literacy rates within communities. On a positive note, Kenya has a policy in place that aims to make education accessible and inclusive by providing space, resources, and training for teachers in schools so that learners with and without visual impairments can learn alongside each other, enabled by EdTech solutions.

In November 2022, I once again moderated EdTech Monday Kenya where our panel discussion topic was 'Edtech as an Enabler of Education for Learners with Visual Impairments In Kenya'. Our panel consisted of Sheilah Lutta, Principal Education Officer - Special Needs Education, Ministry of Education. Suparna Biswas, CEO, Kilimanjaro Blind Trust Africa. Eric Ngodi, Board Member, United Disabled Persons of Kenya (UDPK) and Secretary - Society of Professionals with Visual Disabilities (SOPVID). Rose Omollo was our sign language Interpreter.

I found this particular Edtech Monday Kenya to be truly eye-opening as I got to visit Moi Girls High School in Nairobi where they have a team, facilities, and equipment to accommodate school girls with visual impairments. I met some of those involved including teachers, students, and other support staff, and got to interview them to better understand the realities on the ground as well as the challenges and opportunities that exist. EdTech for learners with visual impairments is clearly transformative!

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This a conversation I had with KTN's Laban Cliff on The Headhunter TV Show in November 2022 where we discussed a broad range of topics around the digital future of work in Kenya and beyond. We talked about my own experiences as the CEO of Dotsavvy in terms of how we had to adapt and change as an organization in how we work due to the COViD-19 pandemic almost 3 years ago when we started working remotely on a full-time basis. We also discussed what changes we had to make in terms of managing our business across the board with a specific focus on recruitment as well as our day-to-day operational aspects as far as our team is concerned including the various productivity platforms and business processes.

Another key aspect of our conversation revolved around the importance of individuals building strong personal digital brands on social media as one of the ways that they can ensure they stand out from the crowd via thought leadership content that can position them as desirable employee candidates for work-related opportunities. This is an area that has become especially important since the onset of the pandemic as everything went digital as far as talent recruitment is concerned for employers of all sizes in Kenya and beyond.

Lastly, we also discussed how important it has become for organizations to become more flexible with their workforce by adopting hybrid and work-from-home policies that are focussed on productivity and not just showing up in person at the office at a time when talent wars have become intense in Kenya! Due to this trend, we talked about how the best talent in Kenya is now being recruited globally with highly competitive packages whilst allowing them to work anywhere they prefer globally. This paradigm shift is changing everything about the current and future workplace practices from a recruitment and human resources management perspective.

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Sendy as a business has gone through many pivots since it launched a few years ago in Kenya when it initially focussed on providing last-mile e-commerce logistics and fulfillment services for a diverse range of customers, small and large alike. Since then, Sendy business model has evolved to focus primarily on business-to-business or B2B logistics and fulfillment that includes large manufacturers and distributors who don't even do e-commerce at this time.

In my conversation with Sendy's CEO Meshack Alloys, we got to talk at length about the evolution of their business model to go where they are today with a presence in various markets in East and West Africa. Sendy has also been able to grow its digital-first logistics and fulfillment capabilities by building and managing its own proprietary technology platform that has become a cornerstone of its competitive advantage in the markets where they operate against much larger and better-established logistics businesses.

In many ways, from what Meshack shared in our conversation, technology sits at the heart of what makes Sendy a unique and successful digital logistics and fulfillment business. This DNA underpins the ambitious plans that Sendy has as a business going forward to acquire more customers over time whilst building out even more capabilities on the ground such as warehousing and fulfillment centres as well as signing up more delivery partners for their offerings. Sendy is definitely looking to scale up and become a major logistics business across Africa.

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Akshay Gover is the CEO of Cellulant, arguably one of Africa's largest and oldest fintechs that is focused on providing a myriad of integrated digital payment services in Africa and beyond. Akshay joined Celluant approximately two years ago at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic during which time the business was undergoing a significant leadership transition with the founders exiting day-to-day management. 

Cellulant has a formidable geographical and digital payments footprint across Africa in the many countries where it operates where it connects consumers, businesses, and other stakeholders across its various offerings. During our conversation, Akshay was able to articulate very succinctly where Cellulant has come from, where it is today and where it is going. 

It's quite evident that Cellulant has built an impressive Pan-African digital payments ecosystem that enables businesses of all sizes to acquire and make digital payments at scale in Africa and beyond. Cellulant is connected to a good number of banks, telcos, and digital payment partners like Mastercard which makes them uniquely positioned to be the glue that connects everyone to everything from a payments perspective. This has taken a long time to achieve and our conversation really delves into all the details of what makes Cellulant such a successful fintech in Africa. 

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This is a presentation I made on the 8th July 2022 at the first-ever eDigital Connect Summit. The topic was 'Unpacking Web3: Going Beyond The Hype & What It Means For All Things Digital In The Future In Kenya, East Africa & Beyond' and we basically broke down the same for the audience so that they can take practical next steps towards realizing the potential of Web3. I hope you enjoy listening to this podcast! You can also access the presentation as follows:

YouTube Video  @ https://bit.ly/3WB4sqk

Slideshare Presentation @ https://bit.ly/3Wz7cV9 

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This is a conversation I had a little while ago with Oladosu Teyibo who is the Founder and CEO of Analog Teams, a global technology services outsourcing business that's based in the US but utilizes the best African talent to deliver high-quality services to some of the world's largest businesses. Teyibo is Nigerian and attended University in the US where he also happened to be a successful track and field athlete. During his time at University, he also ended up meeting Yao Adantor who is also a co-founder at Analogue Teams where they jointly embarked on the entrepreneurship journey to create what would eventually become Analog Teams today after several key pivots on their business model.

Teyibo graduated from university and initially started his working career as a software engineer at General Dynamics before transitioning to become a business analyst as he wanted to understand how his clients' businesses actually worked. During his time at General Dynamics, he also met Myesha Luster who also eventually became a co-founder of Analog Teams. After he left General Dynamics he started a high-end computers customization business that pivoted into a car dealership services business as well as a haircare business. This set the stage to create Analog Teams and led him to live in Kenya for a year to better understand how the Safaricom M-Pesa mobile money ecosystem worked as they saw an opportunity to tap into this space from an entrepreneurial perspective. e then moved to Nigeria and this led to an epiphany that there was great and hungry talent in Africa for technology services to deliver solutions to global businesses.

Since its last pivot, Analog Teams has grown massively and has outsourced talent across the African continent in markets like Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and others. At the core, what makes Analog Teams unique is that they work to the highest standards and are globally competitive in their offerings. The culture is very much based on being accountable for outcomes and ensuring that there is an aspect of being there for all the team members and their well-being.

Analog Teams is also keen to ensure that their teams can do great purposeful work and can also be proud of what they are doing there for their clients. Indeed, according to Oladosu their recruitment process is highly rigorous to ensure that they not only hire for competence but also for the right attitude given the ambition that they have for Analog Teams. In the last six 6 years or so Analog Teams has managed to hire and train 100+ team members and have skilled them up so that they are much more capable from they joined even if they eventually move on to other opportunities.

However, what fascinates me the most is that Analog Teams has a business model that leverages a local presence in key international client markets whilst adopting global best practices and outsourcing business processes using African-based technology talent. Other global businesses are doing similar things from a technology services outsourcing perspective that leverage talent in or from Africa but Analog Teams is founded and managed by a team from Africa which makes them somewhat unique. Analog Teams also grew substantially during the pandemic and they have big plans going forward to grow their business to focus on outsourcing recruitment for technology talent for clients as potentially yet another pivot of sorts. Have a listen and I hope you enjoy our conversation!

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This is a conversation I had with Ted Pantone who is the founder of an innovative and potentially disruptive insurtech startup called Turaco. Ted has worked for many years in Kenya and Uganda and at one point he was the founder of the Ugandan Franchise of Pizza Hut as well as running development projects in water and sanitation in Western Kenya for the Gates Foundation.

Ted has a passion for looking for solutions to big problems in Africa given the various work experiences he has had on the continent. This is what led him to realize that there was a big gap in Africa with regard to access to Insurance for the mass market. This is a really big problem that means that many people and families suffer incredibly difficult circumstances due to not having a myriad of insurance services when they need them the most.

Turaco offers a novel approach to the insurance problem in markets like Kenya and Uganda as well as Nigeria in the near future by providing affordable and accessible insurance that can be delivered via mobile channels. Turaco targets underserved customers and low-income earners by embedding its service as a white-labeled offering that is bundled with a partner’s core product or service while integrating with their existing payment processes to collect premiums. Turaco acts as a distributor, broker, and interface between the insurance underwriter and customers.

Turaco has a robust API integration that offers easy collaboration with its external partners, enabling business partners to integrate insurance into their products and services efficiently and at no additional risk or cost. An example of this approach is how Turaco is doing so with a mobile network in Kenya designed to work on even the most basic of feature phones using technologies like USSD so that basic mobile access is indeed the common denominator.

Turaco recently raised a US$ 10M Series A equity round led by AfricInvest, via the Cathay Africinvest Innovation Fund, and existing investor, Novastar Ventures. This funding will enable Turaco to expand its geographical footprint and deepen its insurance service offerings across the African continent into populous markets like Nigeria where it can potentially onboard millions of new customers for its offerings via strategic business partnerships. Some of the key customer segments that Turaco serves in Kenya and Uganda for instance are Sun King, One Acre Fund, Tugende, and M-KOPA.

One of the key things I learned is that Ted hopes that Turaco can onboard as many as a billion customers onto its platform! At the same time, Turaco's insurance claims processing takes only a matter of minutes given that its largely a technology-driven process. Turaco can be disruptive in that many low-income earners in Africa could become insured for the very first time at scale in a way that has never been done before. This could be a mobile money moment in the same way that Safaricom's wildly successful M-Pesa transformed financial inclusion for consumers in Kenya and Tanzania. Have a listen and I hope you enjoy our conversation.

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This is a conversation I had with Jaime Pinto who was recently promoted to the position of Chief Commercial Officer of the Software Group. Jaime is an interesting person who has worked in technology-related businesses for decades across many regions and markets both as an entrepreneur and as a senior corporate leader. He has a rich professional background in digital payments and financial solutions as well as mobile banking and mobile money in Africa, Asia, and Europe. Jaime also happens to be a polyglot and is fluent in English, French, Portuguese, Spanish, and Italian! Jaime is remarkably well-traveled in Asia and Africa meaning he can truly appreciate the nuances of delivering digital payments and financial services for those at the bottom of the pyramid for his clients.

The Software Group as a business works closely with banks, co-operatives, fintech, and all sorts of businesses in the financial services space to help them achieve digital transformation. As I spoke to Jaime in detail during our conversation, it occurred to me that the Software Group essentially operates as a financial services technology ecosystem that connects a myriad of financial platforms and interfaces that enable their customers and partners to deliver services at scale in a truly inclusive manner - including even working with their competitors!

As a result, the Software Group has made inroads globally but in particular in markets like Africa where mobile is key in the delivery of digital banking, financial services, and Insurance (BFSI). Indeed, the Software Group has enjoyed global recognition for the solutions it has deployed in more than 70 countries from 9 regional offices serving customers like the Gates Foundation, MasterCard & MasterCard Foundation, International Finance Corporation (IFC), Fidelity Bank in Nigeria, Commercial International Bank Egypt as well as the KCB Bank Group in East Africa.

In Kenya and East Africa, the Software Group has worked with some of the largest and smallest players in the financial services space enabling agency banking for the masses as well as mobile banking and insurance channels. Jaime in particular has been instrumental in ensuring that the Software Group is able to meet customers' needs for unique financial services technology offerings that work well in Africa given our unique and sometimes challenging market conditions and consumer realities. Software Group is driving the financial services inclusion agenda in Kenya and Africa in a way that works and leverages the best of digital transformation for its customers. Have a listen and I hope you enjoy our conversation!

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Safaricom, Kenya's leading mobile network officially launched its commercial 5G services in Kenya during an event on Thursday the 29th of October 2022. As part of the launch, Safaricom had a panel of Moses Kemibaro the Founder and CEO of Digital Agency Dotsavvy, Rehema Wachira a Full Stack Application Developer from Andela, and Brian “Beast” Diang'a a leading Professional E-Sports Athlete in Kenya moderated by Technology Thought Leader and Entrepreneur Mbugua Njihia. 

During the panel, we got to discuss different perspectives on what we saw as some of the key benefits that Safaricom's 5G will bring to our professional areas of work and expertise. At the same time, we got to learn and understand many of the possibilities going forward for 5G in Kenya that could have significant positive implications for the market at large. Have a listen and I hope you enjoy the panel discussion. 

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The International Day of the Girl Child was 11th October 2022 which recognizes girls' rights, and the unique challenges girls face around the world. This year’s theme is “Digital generation. Our generation”, which provides a platform for the global community to understand the disadvantages girls face online. This is very much in line with our theme for the October 2022 Edtech Monday Kenya which is “Advancing Girls’ Education Through Digital Learning in Kenya”.

In terms of advancing girls’ education through digital learning, the advent of the pandemic brought to the fore technologies, platforms, and processes that can enable education for out-of-school girls at scale throughout Kenya. Technologies like mobile devices and the Internet have become key delivery channels for digital learning for out-of-school girls of all ages in the country. Digital learning can counter the barriers that prevent out-of-school girls from accessing education, including long distances to schools, the high cost of education, sexual and gender-based violence, exclusionary policies, unequal burdens like household work, and a negative bias on the value of educating girls.

In today’s conversation, we will explore the ways and means that digital learning can be a key enabler of education for out of school Girls in Kenya, as well as the challenges that exist in making this widely and easily available. Our EdTech Monday Kenya panel for October 2022 of Rukia Sebit, Founder, Sunflower Trust, Tonee Ndungu, Founder & CEO, Kytabu, Margaret Kamau, Deputy Project Director - GEC Project, Education Development Trust, and myself Moses Kemibaro as Moderator had a conversation on advancing out of School Girls’ education through digital learning.

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BasiGo is one of Kenya's first companies that has delved into the public transport sector by offering a novel electric bus proposition that will enable public service vehicle or PSV operators to finance the purchase of the electric buses affordably and cost-effectively from the KCB Bank Group. The electric vehicle or electric mobility space in Kenya is quite nascent and hence this is definitely quite unique!

The whole financing approach is genuinely disruptive in that purchasing an electric bus for public transport operators in Kenya with affordable and sustainable for all stakeholders with the KCB Bank Group offering up to 90% financing over a 36-month period. Indeed as of this writing, BasiGo is offering its 25-seater electric bus for Kes. 5M and already has a backlog of over 100 orders in place.

BasiGo offers a Pay-As-You-Drive subscription at a price of Kes. 20.00 per kilometer driven and they retain ownership of the batteries in the electric bus. The subscription includes service and maintenance, insurance, recharging, and the leasing of the batteries as well! The K6 electric bus that BasiGo is bringing to the market is also state-of-the-art in that it has Internet service built into it, it's very quiet and comfortable, has security cameras on board, and also requires driver training to ensure optimum utilization.

I had the opportunity to meet BasiGo's CEO Jitt Battacharyaand KCB Bank Group's Head of Asset Finance Robert Mburu for a conversation on all aspects of their strategic financing partnership for BasiGo's electric buses in Kenya. We also got to understand how BasiGo has been running an extensive pilot in Nairobi with two of its electric buses at Citi Hoppa and East Shuttle since March 2022 and over 90,000 kilometers were covered and 112,000 passengers carried. In addition, they have avoided over 17,000 liters of diesel fuel consumption and mitigated 42 tonnes of carbon emissions as well as having 98% uptime with daily usage.

At the same time, we learned how KCB Bank Group is part of the Green Climate Fund or GCF which is part of its major push into sustainability as a bank and how this is aligned well with BasiGo's electric bus proposition in Kenya. It took only 3 months for BasiGo and KCB Bank Group to enter into their financing partnership which is impressive given that BasiGo is an electric mobility startup! Have a listen to learn more about BasiGo's and KCB Bank Group's innovative financing partnership to supply electric buses for Kenya's public transport sector!

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Mawingu Networks is an Internet Service Provider or ISP in Kenya that has been operational for approximately a decade that has carved out a niche for serving consumers and organisations in parts of Kenya that have been traditionally underserved by larger and better-known ISPs with unlimited Internet access at an affordable price.

I had the opportunity to have an in-depth conversation with Farouk Ramji who is Mawingu Network's CEO in early October 2022 on a number of different aspects of where Mawingu Networks is today as an ISP business and their plans going forward.

What surprised me is that Mawingu Networks has become a dominant and successful ISP for unlimited Internet in unconventional markets such as Wajir and Nanyuki for its high-quality offerings that are normally delivered wirelessly using mature technologies that actually work well and are easy as well as cost-effective to deploy.

Farouk also shared that Mawingu Networks is currently in the process of raising a substantial funding round that will enable it to expand further and deeper into other underserved markets for unlimited and affordable Internet access throughout Kenya using a 'flanking' greenfield strategy as opposed to targeting well-established markets like Nairobi or Mombasa.

Mawingu Networks is steadily building up a formidable position by becoming the de facto ISP for consumers and in particular small and medium-sized businesses or SMEs for its offerings in hitherto markets that have been traditionally seen as being too small for other ISPs in Kenya. Have a listen and I hope you enjoy our chat!

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Earlier this week I hosted my first EdTech Monday Kenya panel on NTV Kenya where we discussed the important topic of Internet safety for young learners in Kenya. This is an especially pertinent topic given that during the pandemic we saw the unprecedented adoption of EdtTch as a key way to ensure continuity of learning in Kenya and globally, via the Internet. However, at the same time, this meant that young learners became increasingly exposed to some of the risks of using the Internet such as cyberbullying, pornography, online predators, identity thieves, inappropriate content, etc , without necessarily knowing how best to navigate them.

This month's EdTech Monday Kenya panel consisted of Kaburo Kobia from the Akili Network and Evelyn Kasina from Eveminet Communication Solutions, with me as the moderator. The Akili Network runs Akili Kids, one of Kenya's most popular TV stations that reaches an impressive 10M viewers every week comprised mostly of parents and children with family-safe content. Eveminet Communication Solutions works with a diverse range of stakeholders such as children, parents, and educators to adopt practices and technologies that ensure internet safety for Kenyans from all walks of life. If you missed the broadcast on NTV Kenya earlier this week, you listen to this podcast where we covered a myriad of issues relating to Internet safety for young learners in Kenya.

EdTech Monday Kenya is made possible through the support of the Mastercard Foundation's Centre for Innovative Teaching and Learning in ICT (CITL). CITL supports the growth of an impactful African EdTech ecosystem that will catalyze innovation and advance promising practices in the use of ICT in learning and teaching to benefit African learners, educators, and policymakers.

The Mastercard Foundation is one of the largest private foundations in the world. Its vision is a world in which everyone has an opportunity to learn and prosper. The Foundation was created in 2006 through the generosity of Mastercard when it became a public company. It was established as an independent organization whose policies, operations, and program decisions are determined by its own Board of Directors and Management.

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A couple of weeks ago Vodacom Tanzania became the first mobile network in Tanzania to roll out 5G Internet services starting with Dar Es Salaam with plans to expand services to other major cities and towns throughout Tanzania. This makes Vodacom Tanzania really the first mobile network in East Africa to truly bring 5G services to the region at scale and naturally, I wanted to get more insights on how this happened and the next steps.

Through my previous interactions with contacts at Vodacom Tanzania earlier this year I was able to secure this podcast interview with Andrew Lumpembe who is their Networks Director this afternoon and he shared insights on what it took to achieve 5G for their network. As things stand, Dar Es Salaam is where they are live and will have 200+ sites live in a few months' time in Arusha, Dodoma, Mwanza, Iringa, Kagera, Zanzibar, Mbeya, etc. 

Andrew was able to give me a fairly detailed timeline on what its taken to take Vodacom Tanzania from 2G in the early 2000s all the way through 3G, 4G, and now 5G. One major factor seems to be that Tanzania's regulator availed frequency spectrum at no additional cost in the move from 3G to 5G so this was obviously a major factor for the successful rollout. Have a listen here. 

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This is a conversation I had with Firas Ahmad, the Founder, and CEO of Tanzania's AzamPay back in late March 2022 when they launched AzamPesa, a mobile network agnostic mobile money wallet. For reasons I can't get into it has taken me a few months to finally publish this podcast where Firas shared so much on his personal journey to building what is one of Tanzania's and East Africa's most innovative and successful digital payments fintechs in AzamPay.

During our chat, Firas shared the journey of the building and rolling out Sarafu which is AzamPay's e-commerce platform for small retailers in Tanzania which at the time was serving over 10,000 shops in Dar Es Salaam on a monthly basis and had a transactional volume of around US$ 2.8M after launching in an 18 to 24 month period. Sarafu essentially makes it possible for small retailers to order goods for their shops and pay for them using mobile money whilst also having delivery logistics handled at the same time. Retailers can also get credit for goods being purchased on Sarafu based on their performance over time which is increasingly a supply chain optimization model that we are seeing across East Africa with many technology startups in the informal retail space.

Firas then shared with me how AzamPesa was actually a cog in a larger business strategy to enable consumers to have a mobile money wallet offering that would have use cases that transcend what mobile network-based wallets offer at this time in Tanzania. However, rather than compete directly AzamPesa would enable both consumers and businesses to benefit from direct engagements and incentives that would open up new possibilities that hitherto are not possible. Have a listen here.

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It has taken me the better part of two years but finally, I managed to wrangle a podcast with Liko Agosta, Founder of PesaPal, one of Kenya's and Africa's leading and homegrown digital payments services providers. Liko is the type of founder and techie who likes to quietly put his head down and grinds away at solving big business problems without the hype or white hot attention that is currently associated with Africa's burgeoning fintech sector that has seen more than a few unicorns raise astronomical funding rounds during the last few years or so.

Indeed, PesaPal only got its start in 2009 as a result of Liko and his team at Verviant, a now-defunct software development business, needing a way of receiving digital payments for an East African travel portal they developed and could not find a simple and effective solution that worked locally in Kenya. This led Liko and his team to build a very nascent digital payments platform called PesaPal which received only 3 payments during a period of a few months back in 2009! Since then, PesaPal became Liko's sole focus and after just over a decade PesaPal is now arguably one of East Africa's largest digital payments service providers with operations in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda serving a large range of clients in each of these countries.

PesaPal has evolved to become a fully-fledged digital payments ecosystem that includes e-commerce solutions for all businesses with the hospitality industry as its main focus and growth engine. PesaPal also offers advanced point of sale (POS) systems branded SABI for small and large merchants that can acquire both mobile and card payments seamlessly and easily. PesaPal has also built a unique travel booking engine called ReservePort that enables hotels to receive payments from customers locally and globally whilst connecting their accommodation offerings to global distribution systems (GDS) from their own property management systems.

During the pandemic, Liko and the team at PesaPal managed to help well-known hospitality groups like Art Caffe implement their own direct-to-consumer e-commerce platforms enabling them to bypass popular food delivery services but also integrate directly with them whilst connecting their own hospitality management systems. PesaPal also runs TicketSasa which is a popular e-ticketing platform for many events in Kenya. In a nutshell, Liko and PesaPal have come a long way so it was a real pleasure to sit down with Liko to unpack how he got his early start in technology as a teenager to build a behemoth of an African digital payments business in PesaPal with almost zero funding to-date. Have a listen here!

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Ali Hussein is someone I have known for close to three decades since we first met and worked together at 3mice Interactive Media (3mice), arguably Kenya's first digital marketing agency in 2001 (I think?). He and I worked closely in 3mice's business development department where we spent many days and nights with a highly talented and hard-working team essentially pitching, winning, and managing premium clients for a range of website and online marketing services at the time. As events would have it, even after both Ali and I moved on from 3mice, we remained fast friends and we have been in each other's lives ever since.

Ali is someone that I have leaned on quite often in life when things are good and bad. He is also one of the few people who like me sees the world not for what it is but what it can be through the lens of the incredibly potent perspectives made possible by the transformative power of existing and nascent technologies. Indeed we have often joked how we are now 'wazee wa digital' in Kenya which in direct translation from Kiswahili means 'the old men of digital' in English. We have been doing stuff in this space for so long that we can talk of significant milestones with clarity going back decades.

More recently, after a career spanning marketing, data analysis, and transportation, Ali has managed to become probably Kenya's and Africa's most formidable thought leader in the fintech space - that convergence of financial services and technologies that are transforming the African continent at scale for consumers, businesses, and governments. Indeed, Ali has also made a name himself on Linkedin where I often joke with him that he has hacked their algorithm as 'Ali Hussein of Linkedin' as legions follow his incisive and thought-provoking insights on all things technology in Africa, and beyond - but where his passion for all matters fintech is palpable!

In our conversation, Ali and I spoke for around an hour making this probably my longest podcast to date. We talked about how he got his start in marketing, technology, and even data analytics which all connected the dots to lead him to where he is today from his first encounter with typewriters and computers at University. We spoke at length about what he sees happening in the Kenyan and African fintech space with some ideas around where the current cryptocurrencies fallout is headed. I hope you enjoy the conversation as much as I did so grab a coffee or a drink of your preference and have an engaging listen!

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This is an interview I had with Kamal Budhabhatti, the founder and CEO of Little App on the 18% commission cap for taxi-hailing apps In Kenya that was announced earlier this week by the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure. Little App is not really being affected by this new development since they already have a low commission rate of only 15% which is actually below the newly introduced commission cap. 

However, the likes of Uber and Bolt in Kenya have been charging a commission of as much as 25% for every trip that their drivers make which has remained unchanged even as fuel prices in Kenya have increased sharply. The fallout of this situation has meant many drivers have been adversely affected and are not making enough money to operate their taxi-hailing services. 

In our conversation, Kamal shared the Little App perspective on how they have been able to keep their commissions so low and how they plan to keep going in the event Uber and Bolt may take extreme measures to suspend services in Kenya as was the case in Tanzania a couple of months ago. Have a listen to hear Kamal's point of view on what could become a highly pivotal moment in Kenya's taxi-hailing app services sector for service providers, drivers, and riders. 

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This is an interview I had this week with Moses Nderitu who I have known for the better part of 20 years or longer since he used to run a video and events production company called Level One Productions. Moses is someone I would describe as a classic serial entrepreneur having started other successful companies since then such as Excloosive and Koto Housing. At this time, Moses is the Chief Revenue Officer BasiGo, an electric mobility start-up looking to revolutionize Kenya's public transportation sector by providing public transport bus owners with a cost-effective electric alternative to diesel. However, from my perspective, Moses is easily one of Kenya's leading evangelists for all kinds and types of electric mobility solutions.

In our conversation, Moses shared how he got hooked on all things electric mobility when he spent one month or so in China back in 2013. He saw how even the majority of couriers used electric scooters to do deliveries all over the city he was in and that such transportation was already mainstream at the time. He gradually saw how this was growing globally in the following years which led him to intentionally explore possibilities in Kenya for electric mobility. One thing that he said in the interview that stuck with me is the radical idea that given that Kenya produces most of its electricity from renewable energy sources like geothermal, hydro, and wind it could potentially supply the same for electric mobility at scale instead of Kenya using imported fuel-based energy. Have a listen here!

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Eric Achola is the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) at Telkom Kenya, one of Kenya's Telcos. He has been working with Telkom Kenya for approximately 3 years. I met him today to discuss what I thought would be a podcast conversation around several new offerings from Telkom Kenya like the Changa Bundle which offers an unprecedented 100GB of data for up to 5 users on a shared basis for only Kes. 1,500 a month as well as this morning's buy now pay later (BNPL) partnership launch with Lipa Later where customers can purchase smartphones on 3-month or 12-month payment plans. However, Eric took me in a whole different direction where we talked about his life and extensive marketing career with only a small part of this podcast being dedicated to anything about Telkom Kenya.

Simply put, Eric surprised me with his candid and open conversation about his life as a seasoned marketer, entrepreneur, and innovator. Eric grew up from an early age in a few countries around the world before settling in Kenya. He worked as a marketer in new and old companies such as Diageo, East African Breweries, IPSOS Kenya, Unilever, Safaricom, Coca-Cola, Safaricom, M-Kopa, and a few others in Kenya and across Africa in countries like Angola, Nigeria, Uganda, Mozambique, Tanzania, etc. Eric has done the rounds before he ended up at Telkom Kenya where he is doing interesting things to shake up the status quo in Kenya's telecommunications sector. Eric says it as it is in this podcast so be prepared for some surprises when you have a listen!

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This is an interview that I had yesterday afternoon with Addis Alemayehou, the founder and chairman of Ethiopia's Kazana Group. The Kazana Group currently has a portfolio of over 13 companies operating in marketing, communications, advertisement, fintech, telecom, manufacturing, logistics, technologies, investment management, and advisory services. Kazana Group's mission is to promote economic prosperity by supporting companies in Africa to make impactful changes and solve critical problems in the lives of communities around them. Kazana Group also believes in empowering African entrepreneurs as they are principal stakeholders in the impetus towards inclusive growth and development.

Addis has an interesting background in that he actually grew up in Nairobi in Kenya and as a result, even the name 'kazana' is actually Kiswahili for 'striving hard'. Addis moved back to Ethiopia around 21 years ago and was behind launching Ethiopia's first English language radio station after spending time learning from the late Chris Kirubi and his team at Kenya's Capital FM. Addis then started a marketing agency and gradually expanded the number of businesses that eventually came to form the Kazana Group. Addis also launched a TV station in Ethiopia thereafter where they dubbed over international content in Amharic that became very successful leading to it being acquired by France's Canal Plus.

Addis is behind a startup called Mafuta in Kenya that provides loans for fuel to taxi drivers in Kenya where they are currently running a pilot with over 1,000 drivers. Mafuta aims to solve the problem of helping them fuel their cars even when they don't have cash. At the same time, Addis is this week in Nairobi signing a partnership agreement with Kenya's Strathmore Business School through his Capital Business School to offer their executive programs in Ethiopia. Going forward, Addis is keen on supporting technology startups in Ethiopia and Kenya with young entrepreneurs and will be raising a multimillion-dollar fund for this purpose later this year. Have a listen to learn more about Addis' amazing entrepreneurial journey and the state of the digital ecosystem in Ethiopia including the impending launch of Safaricom Ethiopia.

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This is an interview I had yesterday evening with Matt Koidin, VP and General Manager of Pocket at Mozilla as well as Carolyn O'Hara, senior director of content discovery for Pocket at Mozilla. Matt was a member of the founding team of Pocket, joining in 2011 as CTO and Head of Operations. He was integral to the Mozilla acquisition of Pocket in 2017, and today is responsible for the entire Pocket platform. Carolyn is the senior director of content discovery for Pocket where she and her team oversee Pocket's recommendations across our apps, emails, and integrations within the Firefox browser.

Pocket is officially launching in Kenya this morning. What Pocket does as both a web-based service that is part of Mozilla's Firefox web browser and a mobile app is that it enables users to save a variety of content (such as blogs, news sources, web pages, and videos) to one place and access it later from any device. Pocket is currently used by over 10 million users globally and Kenya is the first major market in Africa where the service is being specifically tailored for local content and users. More specifically, Mozilla has partnered with Kenya’s Aga Khan University and Pocket to spotlight exceptional content and curators in Kenya which can be accessed from https://getpocket.com/stori-zetu. Have listen to hear more about Pocket's plans for Kenya going forward.

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This is an interview I had not too long ago with Bulent Boytorun who is the Founder and CEO of CryptoSasa, Kenya's and East Africa's first locally based crypto exchange. Bulent has been working CryptoSasa for the better part of the last couple of years when he saw a gap in how the whole crypto market was operating in this part of the world given that cryptocurrencies are normally traded on global exchanges. These crypto exchanges have not been developed to serve consumers and businesses in markets like Kenya and Africa so there are aspects that make them expensive to use and also not ideal for a market where mobile money dominates digital transactions. 

In building and eventually fully launching CryptoSasa, Bullet hopes to transform Kenya's and Africa's crypto market for consumers and businesses at scale for a myriad of use cases such as global trade, remittances, and investing. Bulent wants to CryptoSasa to become a vehicle that will ultimately democratize and popularize crypto as a mainstream thing for anyone and everyone. In his view, crypto needs to become something that we can all participate in at scale and do so easily, simply, and affordably. Listen to the podcast to get a sense of the sheer scale of ambition that Bulent has for CryptoSasa in Kenya and the rest of Africa.  

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This is an interview I had late last week in Nairobi with Doug Hunter who heads up Customer and Ecosystem Enablement for SYSPRO Africa. Doug s responsible for Support, Consulting, and Education/User-Enablement services to SYSPRO's channel partners and customers within Sub-Saharan Africa. SYSPRO is a major player in Enterprise Resource Planning or ERP systems used by many businesses in Kenya and East Africa with a focus on manufacturing and distribution. 

Doug and I spoke at length on all aspects of all things ERP both positive and challenging based on his perspectives of having worked in this space for over three decades. Doug knows what works and what doesn't when it comes to all things ERP where he spends most of his time ensuring SYSPRO's solutions are 'right-sized' for many of their customers in Kenya and East Africa. 

At heart, Doug, a Scotsman who emigrated to South Africa, is a manufacturing/logistics business professional - rather than an IT techie, having directly managed different manufacturing operations and supply chains. His passion now is to help such companies discover and implement innovation using people, processes, and appropriate business IT.

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This was an interesting conversation I had a couple of months ago with Belinda Jubilant Wera who is the Head of Digital Care & Automation at Vodacom Tanzania. She took me through her career changes prior to and during her time at Vodacom Tanzania and also how they are using digital channels such as chatbots and voice biometrics to ensure enhanced customer service. 

She also gave me a sense of how Vodacom Tanzania has been navigating digital transformation initiatives due to the COVID-19 pandemic and this has changed how they engage with customers at this juncture. I hope you enjoy this highly insightful conversation on how customer service is being radically enhanced via digital transformation on the Pure Digital Passion podcast with Moses Kemibaro! 

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This is an interview I had with Jean-Christian Bergeron, CEO of RUBIS East Africa on the launch of the RUBIS brand in Kenya following the acquisitions of Kenol Kobil and Gulf Energy in 2020 which has 230+ fuel stations in the region as well as their digital transformation as a business. 

RUBIS is using digital technologies to transform the utility and convenience of its offerings such as having fuel stations that offer free WIFI, their cloud-linked fuel card, and a mobile app that has been downloaded over 20,000 as of this recording. Jean-Christian indicated that they plan to have 20% of their revenues from digital services. 

In addition, we also spoke on how they see RUBIS being positioned for renewable energies and electrification in the future. I hope you enjoy listening to our brief but interesting conversation here on the Pure Digital Passion podcast with Moses Kemibaro!

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This is an interview I had with Andy Halsall, the Founder and CEO of poa! Internet, an ISP in Kenya that has deliberately targetted the underserved low-income market in Nairobi and the rest of Kenya. poa! Internet was established in 2016 and to date has grown significantly with 12,000 paying home customers and tens of thousands of WIFI customers. In January 2022, poa! Internet secured US$ 28M in a Series C funding round led by Africa50, bringing the total amount it has raised to date to US$36M.

In our conversation, Andy shared with me how the business got started and how they plan to grow now that they have received significant funding. In addition, we also spoke about some of the many challenges and learnings that they have had along the way as they rolled out poa! Internet into many low-income areas of Nairobi and its environs. I hope you enjoy our conversation here on the Pure Digital Passion podcast with Moses Kemibaro. This is also our tenth podcast episode since we started so its a nice milestone too!

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This is an interview I had with Greg Murray, Founder & CEO of KOKO Networks, a bioethanol cookers startup that has over 350,000 customers in Kenya. KOKO Networks builds and deploys dense networks of cloud-connected "KOKOpoints" inside local corner stores, which serve as consumer access points for goods and services delivered in partnership with major suppliers. 

KOKO networks' main offering is a consumer solution of a liquid ethanol cooking fuel, which delivers significant cost savings and quality of life improvements in the multi-billion dollar market for urban cooking fuel. Greg shared his personal journey and that of KOKO networks from where they have come from and where they are today. Enjoy the conversation here on Pure Digital Passion - The Moses Kemibaro Podcast! 

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In this interview with Omosalewa Adeyemi and Kanyinsola Ajibade, we get to understand more about the origins of Flutterwave, their massive growth to date as well as massive funding rounds they seem to be attracting that have led the business to have a valuation of US$ 3 Billion which is practically unheard of in the context of technology or fintech startups in Africa. 

We get to have an in-depth conversation about the scope of the business today as well as its latest innovations and its plans for the next few years. One thing is clear - that Flutterwave is not resting on its laurels and it has big plans to transform not just Africa but the rest of the world through its myriad of offerings from a fintech perspective. Enjoy the conversation here on Pure Digital Passion - The Moses Kemibaro Podcast! 

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This is an interview I had with Sean Riley who is the Founder and CEO of Ad Dynamo, a leading digital media sales business in Africa that represents brands like Twitter, Spotify, SnapChat, and Yahoo! Sean has an interesting part of being involved in various startups focussed on Internet-based businesses before he founded Ad Dynamo that initially started off as a digital ad network reaching over 58 million users in Africa before it pivoted to become a digital media sales business that won a pitch to handle Twitter Ads.

I reached out to Sean after finding out that Ad Dynamo had been acquired by the Aleph Group, a major global player in emerging markets for digital media sales representing many of the world's leading digital brands in markets like Central America and Eastern Europe. Ad Dynamo now becomes a part of a global digital media sales behemoth that will invariably arm them with state-of-the-art digital marketing technologies and best practices to make Ad Dynamo even more successful in serving brands and clients in Africa. I hope you enjoy our conversation!

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This is an interview I had with Sitho Mdlalose, the Managing Director of Vodacom Tanzania. Sitho joined Vodacom Tanzania from Vodacom South Africa where he was the Finance Director in November 2021, meaning he has been in his current role for just a few months. However, in that time, Sitho has been impressed with the enormous potential that the Tanzanian market has from a digital enablement perspective for all Tanzanians from all walks of life. In our interview, Sitho shared his hopes and aspirations for Vodacom Tanzania in terms of what they can achieve across their diverse offerings in the marketplace. I hope you enjoy the podcast! 

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This is an interview I had with Kris Senanu in June 2021 when he joined Safaricom as their Chief Enterprise Business Officer. Kris and I go way back to 1994 when we got to know each other as students at the United States International University Africa or USIU-Africa as undergraduates. Kris and I also ended up living in the same apartment block at the time when I was unable to get accommodation on campus. As events would have it, we became fast friends all those years ago.

Kris and I also ended up both working together in Kenya's nascent Internet back in the late 1990s when he joined Swift Global and I worked at both Form-Net Africa and Africa Online - the largest Internet companies in Kenya at the time which effectively made us frenemies! That being said, in the last two decades Kris joined Access Kenya, and then Internet Solutions Kenya before he went to Telkom Kenya and finally ended up at Safaricom in probably his most ambitious role to date.

Kris and I discussed the motivations behind him joining Safaricom and what he hoped to achieve there not just for Safaricom and himself but also for the entire technology services industry. Indeed during the COVID-19 pandemic, Safaricom changed its strategic direction from being a telecommunications business to becoming a technology services business meaning it intends to evolve dramatically going forward to serve all customers small and large with a myriad of offerings. Kris is very much a key aspect of these transitions for Safaricom. I hope you enjoy the conversation on this podcast!

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This is a really interesting interview that I had with Bernard Momanyi Nyagaka, the Founder and CEO of Onesha Technologies. Bernard started Onesha Technologies when he was still at the University of Nairobi a few years studying economics and planning for a career in banking. He became aware of a gap when he noticed many of his peers were actually already working on client projects but could not effectively market themselves even though the quality of their work was excellent. 

This inspired him to learn how to code and build a creative talent platform that soon had over 2,000 creatives signed up at the University of Nairobi. This prompted him to take a sabbatical from his studies after he went to Asia for an entrepreneurship conference and he realized he could actually make a serious business out of Onesha Technologies. 

Bernard's ultimate goal is to make Onesha Technologies the biggest creative talent marketplace in Africa and to have one million creatives on it to serve customers globally. I hope you enjoy this candid and inspiring conversation as much as I did!

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This is an interview I had with Niladri Roy, the COO of Little App on the 22nd January 2022. Little App started life as a taxi hailing mobile app a few years and is gradually transforming into a 'super app' that enables business and individual customers to access a myriad of on-demand digital services. Niladri shared various perspectives of where Little App is today and where they are going as a business in the fututre. 

One of their bigger initiatives is their plan to soon launch a myriad of electric mobility offerings including e-motorcycles, e-bikes, and e-scooters. Little App wants to be a part of the increasingly global trend for mobility to become environmentally friendly, reducing carbon emissions at scale. Niladri also shared how they operate as a business where they have focussed primarily on serving the business segment rather than the consumer segment to grow the business whilst avoiding price wars. I hope you enjoy the podcast!

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This is an interview I had with Ranjith Cherickel, the CEO of IColo on the 15th June 2021 on the role of data centres in Kenya’s digital economy and transformation. iColo is a technology infrastructure company that designs, builds, and operates state-of-the-art carrier-neutral data centers which serve a broad spectrum of clients in Kenya and globally. iColo's data centers are hyper-connected hubs that provide colocation services including power, security, network access, redundancy, rack space, and precision cooling to for customers. iColo is part of Digital Realty (DLR) with 275+ data centers in 24 countries across 6 continents.

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This is the Interview I had with Oscar Pierre, the CEO of Glovo when he visited Kenya for the first time on Monday the 7th June 2021. Glovo is on an aggressive expansion plan for Africa in 2021 with Kenya, Uganda, Ghana, Ivory Coast, and Morocco all operational and markets like Nigeria coming soon.

The on-demand delivery app, and service launched in Kenya almost 3 years ago. Glovo is a massive business globally with operations in Europe and increasingly in Africa. The business started out in Spain in 2015 and expanded quickly to Europe and thereafter to Latin America which they recently exited.

Glovo has around 10 million customers globally as of the writing. Glovo as a business has also been raising major funding rounds with a Series F of $528 million (€450 million) in April 2021. The business is now valued at over US$ 2 Billion on this basis and is expanding fast! Here is what Oscar and I discussed when we met for lunch with the broader Glovo team

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