Absa SA, KenGen, Safaricom Among Top Organisations On CIO100 Shortlist

No photo availableCIO Africa authorByKevin Namunwa
3 min read
The shortlist follows an extensive three-month survey and adjudication process, where these innovative companies stood out for their remarkable contributions to IT and digital transformation across various industries
L-R: Andrew Karanja, Director at dx5, Charles Washika the CIO of the Year 2023, and Harry Hare, the Chairman and publisher at dx5 during the gala dinner at the CIO100 Awards and Symposium in Diani, last year.
L-R: Andrew Karanja, Director at dx5, Charles Washika the CIO of the Year 2023, and Harry Hare, the Chairman and publisher at dx5 during the gala dinner at the CIO100 Awards and Symposium in Diani, last year.

150 top organisations have been shortlisted for the upcoming CIO100 Awards and Symposium. Scheduled for 20-22 November 2024, the event will take place at the Enashipai Resort and Spa in Naivasha. Famously known as the ‘Oscars of Technology,’ the CIO100 Awards celebrates, highlights and recognises individuals and companies that have successfully integrated technology to solve real life problems.

“The CIO100 Awards celebrate not just innovation but the bold leadership and vision that drive technological progress across Africa. This year’s finalists have demonstrated outstanding creativity and resilience in the face of challenges, proving that African organisations are ready to shape the future of technology on the global stage. We look forward to honouring their achievements and fostering the collaborations that will continue to propel Africa’s digital transformation,” said Andrew Karanja, Director, CIO Africa by dx5, the creators and organisers of the awards and publishers of CIO Africa Magazine.

The shortlist follows an extensive three-month survey and adjudication process, where these innovative companies stood out for their remarkable contributions to IT and digital transformation across various industries. The survey received a total of 721 applications from 18 African countries, showcasing the widespread participation and the growing influence of technology across the continent. The short list runs the gamut of sectors from banking and financial services, manufacturing, insurance, energy and utilities, healthcare, telecommunications, agriculture, and more—each driving impactful change within their respective industries.

Notable companies will be eyeing a cross-section of awards. The banking and financial services industry (BFSI) attracted accomplished institutions such as Absa Bank SA, First Bank Nigeria, and Standard Chartered Bank while the manufacturing category inspired participation from last year’s winner, Car and General. The insurance sector’s shortlist, on the other hand, includes giants such as the Hollard Group and Jubilee Insurance. Meanwhile, the energy and utilities category has KenGen and its East African counterpart, the Uganda Electricity Generation Company (UEGCL). The Aga Khan University Hospital made the shortlist in the healthcare category with Safaricom PLC with Mesh Plus Plus making it in the telecommunications category’s shortlist. With agriculture being the backbone of the economy in quite a few African countries, it comes as no surprise that Kenya Tea Packers Limited (KETEPA), and the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA), also a 2023 contender, make an appearance.

Geographically, the competition has seen really strong representation from East Africa, West Africa and South Africa, reflecting these regions’ strategic locations as rising hubs of technological innovation in the continent. The diverse entries underscore how technology is shaping Africa’s future, fostering both economic growth and societal progress.

The CIO100 Awards are an excellent opportunity to spotlight the challenges African organisations have overcome to implement successful digital solutions as well as toast their s uccess stories. The finalists have navigated complex environments and adopted creative approaches to achieve success and have proven that Africa’s tech potential is both limitless and resilient.

“This year’s CIO100 Awards will not only celebrate technological excellence but will also serve as a powerful platform for networking and collaboration. Industry leaders, technology experts, and innovators from across the continent will gather to exchange ideas, form new partnerships, and discuss the future of Africa’s digital landscape. With such a diverse and talented pool of finalists, the event is bound to spark meaningful conversations and inspire further breakthroughs,” concluded Harry Hare, Chairman, CIO Africa by dx5.

The event promises to be a celebration of ingenuity, perseverance, and the limitless possibilities technology offers for the continent’s future.

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