End Of An Era: Kunle Awosika Leaves Microsoft After 25 Years

Kunle Awosika has officially ended his 25-year career at Microsoft, stepping down from his role as Enterprise Partner Solutions Leader for Microsoft Middle East & Africa, in a departure that closes a defining chapter in the tech giant’s history on the continent.

“Twenty-five years ago, I walked into Microsoft with little more than ambition, curiosity and a belief that technology could change lives. A week ago, I handed back my badge,” Awosika said, reflecting on his journey.

Over more than two and a half decades at Microsoft, Awosika rose through a series of senior positions. Most recently, he served as Enterprise Partner Solutions Leader for MEA Growth Markets from June 2025 before being appointed to lead the same function for Microsoft Middle East & Africa the following month. Before that, he was GM for Public Sector Africa from May 2023 to August 2025, and Managing Director of the Africa Transformation Office (ATO) from August 2022 to May 2023.

In these roles, Awosika worked closely with governments on digital transformation initiatives and supported entrepreneurs building industry-changing businesses. He also served on the Presidential Digital Talent Programme Advisory Board.

A Defining Moment: The Windows 10 Launch in Kenya

One of the defining moments of his career, he recalled, was in 2015 when Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella chose Kenya as the location for the global Windows 10 launch, travelling to Nanyuki to witness the Mawingu Broadband Initiative delivering affordable internet to rural communities.

“That was never just a product launch. It was belief in Africa,” Awosika said.

He emphasized that the continent’s technological progress is no longer aspirational but already underway, stating, “Africa is not preparing for the digital future. Africa is building it.”

What’s Next

Looking ahead, Awosika said his mission is far from over. “As I begin this next chapter, I look forward to spending more time on the ground across Africa, starting with Nigeria and Kenya, engaging entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, technology leaders, and institutions helping shape our continent’s future,” he said.

“Because while my Microsoft journey has ended, my mission has not. I’m committed to advancing technology as a force for economic growth, inclusion, and opportunity, and helping organisations navigate the era of AI and digital transformation.”

“Africa’s greatest technology story is not yet written,” he added. “Together, let us build it.”