Opportunities And Challenges In Cloud Computing

Cloud computing has been on the rise and has become an increasingly popular technology for businesses of all sizes, with its numerous advantages such as increased agility, scalability, and cost savings. The opportunities of cloud computing are expected to expand in the future, with the potential for even greater innovations and new business models. However, along with the opportunities come challenges, such as data privacy and security concerns, dependence on third-party providers, vendor lock-in, the complexity of managing multiple cloud environments, and lack of in-house expertise and skills.

These challenges and opportunities were the focus of the keynote panel on Opportunities and Challenges in Cloud Computing at the Africa Cloud and Security Summit organized by dx⁵ (formerly CIO Africa). The panel featured three experts in cloud computing and cybersecurity, including Richard Muthua, Executive Head of Cloud and Cybersecurity at Liquid Intelligent Technologies, Lewis Miriti, Cybersecurity Compliance and Identity Specialist at Microsoft, and Phares Kariuki, CEO of Pure Infrastructure Limited. It was moderated by Harry Hare, dx⁵ Chairman.

During the discussion, Richard Muthua highlighted the opportunities presented by infrastructure as a code, which allows organizations to manage multi-cloud environments without being locked in by vendors. He also emphasized the importance of focusing on outcomes when sourcing for cloud vendors and outsourcing the technical aspect of cloud computing to IT service providers.

On the other hand, Lewis Miriti highlighted that the lack of skills and knowledge in cloud computing is a major issue. He emphasized that organizations should not delegate the responsibility of security to vendors and that they should view regulatory requirements as beneficial to their cloud adoption.

Phares Kariuki highlighted the opportunities for organizations to invest more in cloud computing in the coming year and advised that market research can be conducted to find the best cloud vendor. He also warned against overcomplicating cloud needs, which can lead to a bloated budget.

The panellists agreed that security is a forced agenda and that organizations should enforce security measures before it’s too late.

The first day of the Africa Cloud and Security Summit, organized by dx5 (formerly CIO Africa), was attended by over 300 delegates from various industries. The summit aims to provide a platform for experts and professionals to discuss the latest trends and developments in cloud computing and cybersecurity.