AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity anchor Africa’s digital growth - report

Cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and cybersecurity are driving Africa’s next phase of digital transformation, a new report shows.

The CIO100 Megatrends 2025 Report by CIO Africa under dx⁵, which draws insights from organisations across Sub-Saharan Africa, shows that the continent’s digital journey has matured from experimentation to execution.

Machine learning, the Internet of Things (IoT), and edge computing are also emerging as key tools for growth, particularly in finance, government, education, and manufacturing sectors that are driving growth through innovation and smart use of technology.

“African business leaders are no longer asking what’s new — they’re asking what works,” said Harry Hare, Chairman of CIO Africa by dx⁵. “

The data confirms that Africa’s digital leaders have moved beyond adoption debates and into disciplined execution.”

The report notes that cloud computing has shifted from being an innovation milestone to a core business necessity. Companies are increasingly adopting multi-cloud environments to improve efficiency, scalability, and cost control.

AI and machine learning have also evolved from pilot projects into mainstream tools for automation, data-driven decision-making, and customer engagement.

Similarly, cybersecurity is now being treated as a strategic pillar for business resilience rather than a mere compliance requirement, with nearly half of organisations implementing advanced protection frameworks.

While IoT and edge computing adoption remain relatively low, their impact is growing in industries such as agriculture, logistics, and healthcare, helping extend digital intelligence to rural and remote areas.

The report identifies operational efficiency, customer experience, cost control, and employee productivity as top strategic priorities for African businesses, with over 85% of executives ranking efficiency as their main focus.

However, it cites talent shortages, rising cyber threats, and complex regulatory environments as key obstacles to sustained digital growth, calling for stronger collaboration among governments, investors, and educators to build a robust digital talent pipeline and innovation ecosystem.

The findings will be discussed further at the CIO100 Symposium & Awards 2025, set for November 19 through 21 in Naivasha, where 100 of Africa’s top technology innovators will be recognised for excellence in digital transformation.