As the year comes to an end, it’s time to reflect and look back at the year 2024 with abundant gratitude. Across Kenya, many individuals – particularly men – have put in the necessary hard work to make a difference in various industries, for society’s benefit.

To celebrate their efforts, leading digital transformation platform SoMa has announced the Top 25 Men in Digital in 2024.

These men have applied their acumen as innovators, entrepreneurs, thought leaders and business developers to grow and improve the digital space in all manner of positive ways.

Here is the list:

1. Francis Nderitu

Founder and Managing Director, Keep It Cool

Linkedin Profile: Francis Nderitu

Francis is a visionary leader and entrepreneur driving digital innovation and sustainable technologies in Africa.

As the Managing Director of Keep IT Cool, a Google-backed startup, he has developed a cold chain-powered smart distribution platform addressing food supply chain challenges in East Africa, reducing post-harvest losses and improving market access for underserved communities.

Francis has a distinguished career focused on leveraging technology for socio-economic transformation. He contributed to Kenya’s ICT strategies as a Taskforce Member for Innovation at the Presidential Digital Talent Programme and led the Wezesha Project at Vakava Technologies Ltd, securing UK DFID funding to tackle logistical challenges in Africa.

As Lead Project Manager for the Singularity University East Africa Global Impact Challenge, he fostered moonshot innovations to impact millions. At DEMO Africa, he further supported emerging startups by connecting them to global opportunities.

“I am a technophile devoted to crafting tech-powered solutions in logistics and agriculture. Having grown up on a farm, I take pride in supporting African farmers by sharing knowledge to maximize income and constructing effi­cient value chain solutions, leveraging technology to enhance the process.”

2. Andrew Mwanyota Lewela

Chief Executive O­fficer, Kenya Network Information Centre (KeNIC)

LinkedIn Profile: Andrew Mwanyota Lewela

Lewela is a distinguished technology strategist and executive driving advancements in Africa’s digital economy and ICT development. As CEO of the Kenya Network Information Centre (KeNIC) since 2023, he oversees Kenya’s .ke Country Code Top-Level Domain (.ke ccTLD), enhancing digital identity and accessibility for businesses and individuals.

His career is defined by leadership roles that drive innovation and transformation. He founded Sambali Group Limited, a digital economy and government affairs advisory firm promoting sustainable investments and community-focused solutions.

At Check Point Software Technologies, Lewela led cybersecurity initiatives for government and telecom sectors, while at Oracle, he surpassed revenue targets, including delivering an $8M private cloud project for Kenya’s ICT Authority. Previously, as Senior Manager for Public Sector Enterprise Business at Safaricom, Lewela guided a team delivering innovative solutions for Kenya’s public sector, exceeding revenue targets.

During his tenure at the ICT Authority (2009–2014), he managed an $8.6M World Bank project, advancing Kenya’s BPO/ITES sector and supporting the Nailab ICT incubation program.

Lewela’s early roles at Cellulant and Virtual City saw him contribute to pioneering mobile banking solutions and expanding airtime distribution networks, underscoring his commitment to leveraging technology for economic growth and public service transformation.

3. Julius Thairu

Chief Commercial & Customer Offi­cer Kenya Airways

LinkedIn Profile: Julius Thairu

Julius is an accomplished executive with extensive experience in the airline and digital industries. As Chief Commercial & Customer O­fficer at Kenya Airways since March 2020, he has led the airline’s digital transformation strategy, enhancing effi­ciency and driving impactful digital initiatives across departments.

His career at Kenya Airways includes leadership roles such as Sales Director, where he developed global sales strategies, and General Manager for Commercial Sales in Europe, the Americas, and Asia Pacific, overseeing market growth and partnerships with KLM and SkyTeam. Julius has also contributed to the aviation industry as a board member of Jambojet and Precision Air Tanzania, showcasing his expertise in aviation and digital strategy.

Beyond aviation, Julius has been instrumental in the growth of eCommerce in the region, consulting for online marketplaces and advocating for digital transformation through keynote speeches. A member of Kenya Airways’ Executive Steering Committee, he continues to shape the airline’s global growth, market competitiveness, and customer service innovation.

4. Eric Wainaina

General Manager – Africa , Conduit

LinkedIn Profile: Eric Wainaina

Eric is an experienced entrepreneur and business leader with a deep focus on fintech, startups, and digital transformation across Africa. With a career spanning over a decade, Wainaina has contributed significantly to the growth of several tech and financial ventures in the region.

He currently leads Conduit’s expansion efforts in Africa, where the company is revolutionizing global payments settlement by making transactions faster and more affordable.

His role involves strategic oversight of the company’s business growth across the continent. Eric is also a founding partner and Director at the Kenyan Wall Street, a Pan-African distributor of financial data and a prominent news source for Africa’s financial services.

He was also responsible for crafting Caliza Financial Technologies’ Africa strategy, focusing on launching stablecoin infrastructure to facilitate savings and transactions in emerging markets.

“I seek to contribute to the innovation economy by championing the transformation and advancement of my continent, Africa, through ‑ntech. Driven by a fervour for progress, I have cultivated a profound appreciation of how tech could revolutionize ‑nance from ‑nancial infrastructure, securities, media, web3/crypto to cross-border payments”.

5. James N. Ngigi

Head of Business Applications, Jubilee Insurance Company Ltd

LinkedIn Profile: James N. Ngigi

James is a seasoned IT professional with over 16 years of experience in technology and business applications. He currently serves as the Head of Business Applications at Jubilee Insurance, where he has been contributing to the company’s digital transformation since June 2024.

His role focuses on driving business applications that align with Jubilee’s strategic goals. Previously, James held the position of Chief Information O­fficer (CIO) at Jubilee Life Insurance from March 2019 to April 2024. In this capacity, he played a crucial role in overseeing the company’s IT strategy, cybersecurity initiatives, and business process improvements.

His leadership helped streamline Jubilee’s IT operations and enhance overall e­ciency. Before his tenure at Jubilee Insurance, James held various significant positions. As the Head of Digitization & Document Management at Jubilee Life Insurance, he led efforts to modernize the company’s documentation processes, ensuring smoother operations and improved service delivery.

His career also includes notable roles at StepWise, where he managed large teams and complex projects across multiple African countries, and at Mtizamo Africa Group, where he directed all business systems development and projects.

6. Elvis Warutumo

Digital Content Creator

LinkedIn Profile: Elwis Warutumo

Elvis is a dedicated digital content creator, web designer, and digital skills trainer committed to empowering youth with practical skills for the digital age. Transitioning from a graphic designer to a sought-after digital thought leader, Elvis has trained corporate organizations and government agencies in digital marketing.

He has also cultivated a thriving community of learners on platforms like Telegram, WhatsApp, Facebook, and TikTok, where his engaging content, especially life coaching and “how-to” digital skills videos, resonates with Gen Z audiences.

“It might seem strange that I get excited thinking about colors, typography, and cascading style sheets, but my passion for all aspects of graphic design has remained strong throughout my 5-year career. I am a computer enthusiast in graphic design and online marketing,” Elvis stated.

“My background includes corporate, agency and freelance graphic design experience, with a history of leading print, interactive, and digital design projects to acclaimed completion. I have worked on nationwide and international marketing, advertising, product launch, and image campaigns for global brands, as well as branding projects for startups and mid-size companies.”

7. Njaramba Wanjau

Technology Product Manager, Huawei Technologies

LinkedIn Profile: Njaramba Wanjau

Njaramba is a seasoned digital marketing expert driven by a passion for data-informed strategies that create hyper-personalized customer experiences. He has collaborated with leading technology brands, agencies, and digital skills institutions, making significant contributions to the field.

At Huawei, he continues to innovate, building on his success at Safaricom PLC, whereas Commercial Management Lead-Digital, he contributed to a transformative customer journey mapping initiative. This project improved marketing attribution across online and offline data, enhanced the visibility of customer touchpoints, and boosted digital transaction orders across multiple products.

Njaramba also held leadership roles at Publicis Groupe, BEAN Interactive, and WPP Scangroup, driving impactful digital media strategies. As a Faculty Lecturer at the Africa Digital Media Institute (ADMI), Njaramba has imparted cutting-edge digital skills to budding professionals, fostering growth in the industry.

“In the quiet corners of my existence, you’ll find me immersed in the gentle hum of AI exploration, the immersive realms of VR/AR, and the exhilarating pursuits of quantum computing, jets, and aerospace. Beyond the digital frontier, my heart finds solace in the rhythmic cadence of classical and Afro house melodies. Outside the digital cosmos, you might catch a glimpse of me navigating mountain trails on an MTB or gracefully gliding through the waters in a moment of swimming serenity.”

8. Moses Nderitu

Managing Director, BasiGo

LinkedIn Profile: Moses Nderitu

Moses is the Managing Director and Chief Revenue O­cer at BasiGo, an e-mobility startup revolutionizing public transport in Africa with electric buses. BasiGo’s innovative Pay-As-You-Go financing makes electric buses affordable, offering a cleaner and more cost-effective alternative to diesel buses.

Passionate about e-mobility, Moses influences local and regional leaders to adopt electric vehicles and advocates for sustainable transport. He is Vice-President of the Electric Mobility Association of Kenya (EMAK) and Director at ARC Ride.

Moses has founded and led startups, including KOTO Housing Kenya and Excloosive Limited, and has worked as a producer at CNN and Ogilvy & Mather Kenya.

“At BasiGo, we are on a mission to revolutionize urban mobility by making electric buses the backbone of public transport in Kenya. Partnering with forward-thinking operators brings us one step closer to a greener, cleaner future for all. These buses are not only environmentally friendly but also designed for comfort and safety, ensuring that every journey is a delightful experience. New route, new opportunities, connecting communities while reducing our carbon footprint!”

9. Micheal Rasugu

Head of Technology & Business Transformation Strategy, World Food Programme (UN WFP)

LinkedIn Profile: Micheal Rasugu

Michael is a seasoned technology leader with over 17 years of experience delivering innovative IT solutions for global organizations. At WFP, he leads technology staff and implements initiatives to improve core business processes, while also developing and aligning the organization’s AI strategy with business goals.

Previously, Michael served as Head of Technology & Emergency Coordination at WFP Lebanon, where he coordinated emergency strategies with humanitarian agencies to ensure technology readiness. He has also held leadership roles at Microsoft, Sage, and CIC Insurance.

“I possess exceptional product management and people skills, adept at navigating complex challenges to achieve business objectives. As a dedicated learner, I thrive on acquiring new skills to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. Passionate about people, processes, and emerging technologies, I am committed to leveraging advancements to enhance organizational capabilities and drive sustainable growth.”

10. Aggrey Sayi

Chief Executive O­fficer, Maybets

LinkedIn Profile: Aggrey Sayi

Aggrey is the CEO of Maybets, a leading African betting company, where he drives strategy, partnerships, and resource mobilization. He has introduced a phygital customer experience approach, blending online and offline gaming to enhance user engagement.

Aggrey implements integrated media strategies to optimize omni-channel engagement and ROI on ad spend. Previously, he served as Country Marketing Manager at Odibets, where he enhanced customer experience and recruited content creators to drive brand influence. Aggrey has also worked at Zuku, Ghafla, and PTG Travels in various marketing roles.

“At Maybets, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of technological advancements, ensuring that our platform is not only user-friendly but also secure and reliable. We aim to empower our users with the best betting opportunities while maintaining the highest standards of integrity and transparency. Our mission is to set new benchmarks in the industry, and I am excited to be part of a journey that is shaping the future of betting in Africa.”

11. Ian Bosire

Senior Manager Digital Innovations, KCB Group

LinkedIn Profile: Ian Bosire

Ian is a rising leader in fintech, currently serving as the Senior Manager, Digital Innovations at KCB Group. He drives the KCB Digital Innovation Programme, forging strategic partnerships with startups and fintech’s to deliver innovative solutions in Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS), embedded finance, and shaping the future of digital banking.

He previously worked at Family Bank as the Digital Innovation & Partnerships Manager where he led transformative initiatives targeting financial inclusion and MSME growth.

His notable achievements include contributing to the World Bank SAFER Initiative, serving on the Hustler Fund Technical Steering Committee, and spearheading the DigiFarm & Family Bank Smallholder Credit Program—an ambitious project that empowered over 10,000 farmers with digital credit for inputs and insurance, enhancing agricultural productivity and resilience.

Ian has also worked at Betsson Group as Growth Marketing Manager, Betika.com as a product manager and at Bidco Africa Ltd as a Digital & Innovations Manager.

Guided by the mantra, “The only good nation is imagination,” he is passionate about leveraging technology to reimagine financial inclusion, unlocking growth opportunities and driving transformative innovations that empower communities and businesses in the digital economy.

12. Gift Mirie Mwaura

Head Of Strategy and Client Partnerships, iGabantu

LinkedIn Profile: Gift Mirie Mwaura

 Gift is a seasoned global digital marketing and communications specialist with immense experience in digital campaign development and execution, performance management and optimization.

He has been in fore front leading digital transformation initiatives and establishment of digital presence for different brands in the CEMEA countries. He has worked with digital practitioners to localize brand content and storytelling using Artificial Intelligence tools to connect with audiences in different countries.

Gift previously worked at Ogilvy as Digital Strategist where he provided leadership towards content creation, community management and digital marketing optimization to increase return on investment. He also worked at Kijiji agency as Digital Manager and Pied Piper as the Head of Digital Strategy.

“The experience, coupled up with my extensive professional background, positions me as a dynamic teammate and leader with a futuristic mindset. Eager for new challenges, I am well-prepared to leverage my wealth of experience to actively contribute to revenue generation, localization of initiatives, customer experiences, meet milestones and deliver impactful outcomes. Ultimately, I am here to know, here to grow and here to win.”

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13. Bryan Ndambuki

Growth Marketing Manager – Africa, Yabx

LinkedIn Profile: Bryan Ndambuki

Bryan is a growth marketing specialist with expertise in digital consumer acquisition and performance marketing.

As Growth Marketing Manager at Yabx, a fintech improving financial access in emerging markets, he leads user acquisition and market expansion across Africa, focusing on product adoption and engagement through data-driven strategies.

Previously, Bryan worked at NCBA Group as Digital Acquisitions Lead, driving customer acquisition across diverse markets. He also held roles at Belva Digital and Brand2D. Bryan has contributed to developing digital marketing talent as a lecturer at ADMI, helping young professionals secure placements.

“Currently, as the Growth Marketing Manager – Africa at YABX, I lead user acquisition and market expansion across key African markets, focusing on product adoption and strategic growth initiatives.”

14. Jack Owigar

Regional Director , Pulse East Africa

LinkedIn Profile: Jack Owigar

Jack is the Regional Manager at Pulse East Africa an innovative media company with an expansive reach that provides informative and engaging content for online community and wide reach for brands.

He is a digital media and marketing industry thought leader with expansive experience acquired throughout his career path in the leading media houses in the region. He is involved in different thought leadership engagements that have shaped the industry and transformed lives.

He has also mentored young people that have risen through the ranks to become influential personalities in the industry.

Previously, Jack worked at Royal Media Services Ltd as the Digital Sales Manager responsible for monetization of digital services. He also worked at Nation Media Group as the Digital Business Manager and Brighter Monday as Display Advertising Lead.

“We’ve got a very strong team here. I keep on saying no man is an island, so it’s always good to ask. I always tell my team that in as much as I’ve been in this industry for more than 10 years, I always remain teachable, because you learn something every day. And I’m not an expert in all these other things, so I always try to remain humble, try to learn something. I want to do something that will impact people’s lives, something that I’ll look back on and say to myself, ‘Wow, I actually did that, I actually created a difference’’.

15. Peter Kironji

Co-Founder and Chief Executive Offi­cer, Twiva

LinkedIn Profile: Peter Kironji

Peter is the CEO Twiva an Influencer-powered Social Commerce platform where MSMEs Market and Sell goods and services through social media influencers/resellers. Peter has built Twiva to become one of the leading go to influencer platforms for brands and content creators in the region.

The easy-to-use two-sided advanced tech platform has attracted and onboarded many creators hence creating job opportunities for the youth. Twiva was this year chosen for the spark accelerator Program by telecoms giant Safaricom and has attracted funding and support from other sources.

Previously, Peter worked in Canada where he acquired and honed his technology skills. He worked for Key Data Associates as a Cyber Security Engineer, University of Toronto as an IT Assistant and for CIBC as a Customer Service Representative.

“Of late, I have been doing quite a number of mainstream media interviews and it has made me understand that the true power of a company is not in the products but how well the customers really connect with that company. When I go for these interviews, I normally ask myself, what really is our unfair advantage, even though I know for sure that we have unbeatable technology and design but what stands out is how we can help customers be who they want to be or achieve through what we provide. That is the truest wealth, to be honest.”

16. Mark Mwawaka

Digital Account Director, Ogilvy Africa

LinkedIn Profile: Mark Mwawaka

Mark is the Digital Account Director at Ogilvy responsible for spearheading digital strategy for different brands. He recently joined the Advertising Standards Body of Kenya as an Advertising Standards Committee (ASC) member responsible for upholding advertising standards and ensuring that the Kenyan advertising industry operates ethically and responsibly.

He has been a champion of responsible and sustainable digital advertising practices in the agency world and different brands that he has worked with. He is a digital thought leader who has participated in different industry events and contributes immensely to communities that seek to grow the industry.

Mark previously worked at Copia Global as the E-Commerce Digital Marketing Manager responsible for developing and executing customized consumer sales and marketing initiatives to acquire new consumers, increase conversions and loyalty and grow revenue across Copia’s direct-to-customer online platform.

Mark also worked at Longhorn Publishers as the Digital Marketing Lead and Diamond Trust Bank as the Digital and Communications Lead.

“My passion is to create impactful and effective digital strategies that deliver value for both customers and businesses and to empower others to do the same.”

17. Titus Maina

Digital Marketing Specialist, UNEP

LinkedIn Profile: Titus Maina

Titus is a Digital Marketing Specialist at United Nations Environmental Program (UNEP) where he has transformed the UNEP digital assets to vibrant communications channels. He is a consummate digital marketing trainer who has impacted the youth and corporate leaders with invaluable digital marketing and ecommerce skills.

He is involved in several skills development programs that equip content creators and digital marketing strategists with the right skills. He previously worked at Radio Africa Group as the Digital Marketing Content Manager, where he was responsible for integrating commercial and noncommercial content for the media house.

He also worked at Dotsavvy Africa as Social media and Digital campaigns Manager, Africa 118 Inc as the Head of Web & Digital Marketing and Sun Culture as Marketing Manager.

“I excel at leveraging analytics to identify high-impact digital marketing opportunities. My data-driven approach has delivered double-digit increases in tra­c, leads, and sales for the brands I support”.

18. Bryan Wesonga

Corporate Communications Lead, Visa

LinkedIn Profile: Bryan Wesonga

Bryan is a corporate communications leader who continues to transform the reputation, visibility and engagement of leading technology brands. As the Corporate Communications Lead at Visa, Bryan is responsible for the deployment of effective internal and external communications that support Visa’s vision, values, and goals in East Africa.

He collaborates with the regional and global leadership, as well as the business and functional teams, to develop and execute communication plans and campaigns that align with the company’s strategy and brand.

He also manages media relations, stakeholder engagement, and event management for the region, ensuring that Visa’s voice is heard and respected in the market.

Bryan has transformed Visa’s public image through strategic communications initiatives that has increased Visa’s industry leadership and visibility by securing multiple media coverage and speaking opportunities for Visa’s executives and experts.

Bryan previously worked for Safaricom one of the leading telecommunications brands in the region responsible for the effective delivery of Information and Corporate Communications to staff (internal) and the public. He spearheaded innovative digital communications strategies that lead to effective employee advocacy program.

19. Philip Mwaniki

Digital Editor & Content Strategist, Royal Media Services Ltd

LinkedIn Profile: Philip Mwanki

Mwaniki is the Digital Editor and content strategist at Royal Media Services Ltd where he is responsible for leadership and management of the digital content team and activities on all social media platforms and mobile/chat apps.

He has been instrumental in setting up of vibrant and innovative digital content for Royal Media Services platforms that is relevant to the target audience and advertisers.

RMS commands a large online audience due to its creative and interactive content formats that resonate well with the online community.

As a passionate content creator, Philip also hosts the “Convo” a fast-growing podcast that has churned out engaging content by interviewing industry change agents and celebrated personalities. Previously, Mwaniki worked at Nation Media Group as Lifestyle and Entertainment Editor of Buzz Magazine and Columnist for Zuqka.

“Artificial Intelligence (AI) is here; we are no longer debating the future is AI, we are living this reality and it is evolving fast. Blink and you will miss it. Journalism has been thoroughly disrupted by the digital and technological evolution and while our industry is still reeling from Web 2.0 effects, it now needs to contend with the fallout, challenges and opportunities presented by AI,” he noted.

“If we thought these social platforms like Facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram and TikTok were disruptive, then Generative AI is about to shock the world and journalism will still get the short end of the stick if we wait to see what it has to offer.”

20. Eric Muriuki Njagi

Group Director Digital Business, NCBA

LinkedIn Profile: Eric Muriuki Njagi 

Eric is a fintech expert and technology change agent who has led transformative innovations in the financial services sector. He pioneered mobile savings and loan services like M-SHWARI in Kenya and M-PAWA in Tanzania, which became the reference model for mobile-centric financial services.

Eric also played a key role in launching LOOP, Africa’s first fully digital, mobile-first challenger bank. He has previously worked at Cooperative Bank of Kenya and Citi and has mentored many fintech professionals. Eric’s contributions have significantly impacted the fintech space.

“I continue to drive transformative innovations in the Financial Services industry, having launched Africa’s first, fully digital banking experience, LOOP, a disruptive mobile-first and challenger bank. I have since led the charge in the repositioning of the LOOP proposition to a bank agnostic platform enabling both consumers and merchants get access to tailormade financial solution,” he shared.

“I am a keen cyclist and a fast-fading footballer. I am increasingly channelling my energy to the development and mentoring of Fintech-focused start-up companies that seek to solve social problems at scale.”

21. Ken Mwenda Gikunda

Co-Founder and Managing Director, eMobilis

LinkedIn Profile: Ken Mwenda Gikunda

Ken is the Co-Founder and Managing Director at eMobilis Mobile Technology Institute a mobile technology training institution. eMobilis creates opportunities for African youth by training them on digital, software and technological skills.

This prepares them for the future of work by equipping them with marketable, industry-driven skills. eMobilis has partnered with leading brands to enhance digital skills development training and impact youths in marginalized regions.

Ken is passionate about digital skills development for the youth and the potential of Africa given the opportunities availed by technological advancements. He has designed technology transformation programs that have been adopted by different governments, worked with innovators and innovation hubs to establish new initiatives and mentored tech startups.

He worked at Barclays Bank of Kenya as Business Development Manager, British Columbia Technology Industries as Marketing and Communications Director and Vancouver Board of Trade as Account Executive.

“Given the global predictions that the digital economy will continue to grow exponentially throughout Africa, and especially in Kenya, eMobilis Technology Training Institute is a catalyst to enable Africans from all walks of life to benefit from this social/economic revolution—not just in greater access of information, but also in leading design and content development. We hope our efforts will stimulate economic growth and empower African youth”.

22. Letoya Mbuthia

Head of Human Resources, Airtel Money

LinkedIn Profile: Letoya Mbuthia

Letoya is a seasoned human resource professional with over 15 years of experience in the Mining, Logistics and Telecommunications industries.

As the Head of HR at Airtel Money, he is responsible for the delivery of the FinTech business plans, sta­ffing of the group o­ffices in Dubai, Kenya and the Netherlands and providing holistic employee lifecycle support from recruitment to retention.

He previously worked as the Head of HR Business Partners at Safaricom PLC, HR Business Partner – Consumer Division, UK & Ireland at DHL supply Chain and HR Generalist at Magadi Soda Co. Ltd.

Letoya continues to train and equip digital talent equipping them with the latest digital skills for the modern market place. He has also mentored and supported fintech talent locally and globally.

“I have built expertise in effective Business Partnering, Talent Acquisition & Management, Capability Enhancement, Diversity & Inclusion. I have international experience having worked in Germany, the UK, Kenya and Dubai enabling business success to colleagues in different countries across the globe.”

23. Edwin (Eddie) Butita

Chief Executive O­fficer, SPM Africa Limited

LinkedIn Profile: Edwin Butita 

As the CEO of SPM Buzz and SPM Africa Studios, Butita has successfully built platforms that connect millions to global stories, blending creativity with strategic communication.

SPM is transforming storytelling through innovative communication strategies employed by skilled digital media specialists. SPM has also supported local tech talent through capacity building and upskilling in line with global digital trends.

Butita is also one of the leading brand influencers and comedians in the region with vibrant digital accounts that engage users on a daily basis.

“With a proven track record in creating viral digital content, producing record-breaking shows, and mentoring creatives, my goal is to amplify voices and drive meaningful impact. I also excel in creating personalized branding solutions, managing high-profile events, and fostering strong connections in the entertainment and digital media industry. Let’s collaborate to tell stories that inspire, entertain, and transform.”

24. Jason Masai

Head of Product – Digital, M-PESA Africa

LinkedIn Profile: Jason Masai 

Jason is an experienced product and tech leader who is currently leading the product vision, strategy, execution, and innovation for M-PESA Africa, the largest mobile money wallet and fintech ecosystem in the continent.

As the Head of Product – Digital, he leads a cross-functional borderless team of product owners, designers, developers, and market specialists across six markets, ensuring that they deliver a seamless and engaging user experience on the M-PESA super app.

He also collaborates with internal and external stakeholders, such as local market teams, tech vendors, and partners, to shape and execute go-to-market plans, conduct user research, and leverage data analysis to inform product discovery and adoption.

Previously, he worked as the Group Customer Experience Lead at Airtel Money responsible for end-to-end customer experience. He also worked at Absa Group as the Product and Innovations Lead for Timiza, a mobile-first digital bank proposition offering Mobile lending, savings, protection and transactional services on USSD and Mobile Apps (Android & IOS).

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“I have a passion for creating customer-centric and impactful digital solutions to advance financial inclusion, e-commerce, and mobile payments.”

25. Alex Nyingi

Emerging Markets Public Affairs Manager at Google

LinkedIn Profile: Alex Njagi 

Alex is the Emerging Markets Public Affairs Manager, where he engages with executives, legislators, regulators, and communities on public policy, business, and technology issues across regions including Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, Israel, Turkey, and Russia.

He shapes technology for everyone through public policy advocacy and strategic partnerships. Previously, Alex worked at GDI, an incubator for development ventures, and at Microsoft as Lead for Philanthropies in Sub-Saharan Africa, where he promoted tech-based learning models in African countries.

He has also supported government adoption of technology policies and integration of tech into education curriculums.

“I am an innovative leader with a passion for leveraging technology to drive social impact and transformative change. With extensive experience in designing and managing multi-stakeholder initiatives, I specialize in public-private partnerships, policy advocacy, and technology-driven solutions that empower communities and organizations globally,” he said.

“From shaping public policy to driving education transformation across Africa and leading tech adoption in emerging markets, I thrive at the intersection of innovation, strategy, and impact. My expertise spans public affairs, cross-regional program management, and stakeholder engagement, with a proven track record of delivering sustainable outcomes across diverse sectors.