Africa’s tech leaders set to convene in Naivasha for CIO100 Symposium 2025

Africa’s biggest technology leadership event, the 17th edition of the CIO100 Symposium and Awards, is set to take place from November 19–21, 2025, in Naivasha.

The event, organised by CIO Africa by dx⁵, will bring together leading CIOs, CTOs, and digital transformation strategists from across the continent to explore emerging technologies shaping Africa’s digital future.

Dubbed “the greatest tech gathering in Africa,” the annual CIO100 event celebrates innovation and leadership in the adoption of technology to solve African challenges.

This year’s discussions will focus on cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, analytics, and other emerging technologies that are driving transformation in key sectors such as finance, healthcare, and manufacturing.

Ahead of the main event, CIO Africa hosted a teaser session at Sarova Panafric Hotel in Nairobi, featuring a panel of tech leaders, including Geoffrey Gitagia, Group IT Manager at Avenue Healthcare and the 2024 CIO of the Year, and Timothy Laku, Fractional CIO/CTO.

Speaking to journalists at the event, Andrew Karanja, Director at dx⁵, said the CIO100 Awards are more than just a celebration; they are a recognition of the innovators shaping Africa’s technology future.

“This event is not just a celebration; it’s a testament to the relentless spirit of innovation that drives our continent,” said Karanja.

“By recognising those at the forefront of integrating technology with business strategy, we are inspiring a future where technology is a key part of business success in Africa.”

The awards are anchored by the CIO100 Megatrends Report, an annual analysis of Africa’s technology landscape.

According to this year’s findings, cloud computing leads technology adoption at 61%, followed by AI at 54.8%, analytics at 43.8%, and cybersecurity at 43.6%.

The report also highlights the growing use of machine learning, IoT, and edge computing to drive automation and data-driven decision-making.

“The CIO100 Megatrends Report is a compilation of the business value technology brings to organisations,” Karanja added.

“It showcases how Africa’s digital leaders are designing solutions that fit our realities and challenges.”

The CIO100 Awards will recognise Africa’s top 100 technology leaders and organisations, with the highlight being the CIO of the Year Award, honouring individuals who have successfully aligned technology innovation with business strategy.

Previous winners include Geoffrey Gitagia of Avenue Healthcare, Moses Okundi of Absa Bank, Jaine Mwai of Standard Chartered Bank, and Kenneth Ogwang’ of Diageo.

The three-day event will feature high-level panels, masterclasses, and networking sessions, culminating in a gala dinner celebrating Africa’s digital excellence.

This year’s sponsors include Google Cloud Africa, Nathan Claire Africa, Paix Data Centres, CloudPlexo, Tenece, Radware, Africa Data Centres, DownToEarth Technologies, ManageEngine, DataGroup IT, Incentro, Computer Learning Centre, and DataComms Training.