In this episode of the Pure Digital Passion Podcast, on the 2nd December 2024, I had the privilege of representing Dotsavvy on a distinguished panel discussion titled “I Like My Coffee Black: Trade Today and Trade Tomorrow – The Realities” during the recent Africa Trade Development Forum (ATDF) in Kigali, Rwanda. This landmark event, jointly organized by TradeMark Africa and Rwanda’s Ministry of Trade and Industry, brought together thought leaders, innovators, and policymakers to address the challenges and opportunities of digital trade in Africa. Moderated by the insightful Allen Asiimwe, Deputy CEO of TradeMark Africa, the panel featured: Antoine Sebera, Government Chief Information Officer, Rwanda Information Society Authority (RISA) Bernice Omiunu, Founder, Women in Blockchain Africa Gabriel Negatu, Board Member, Atlantic Council and TradeMark Africa Discussion Highlights: The panel tackled key issues such as bridging policy gaps, fostering trust in e-commerce, and financing digital infrastructure: Framing the Issues: Allen set the tone with her analogy of “eating an elephant,” emphasizing a step-by-step approach to solving Africa’s trade challenges. Bridging Policy and Practice: Antoine highlighted Rwanda’s success with the Electronic Single Window and the need for infrastructure investments. Building Consumer Trust: Bernice shared how blockchain can enhance supply chain transparency, while Gabriel discussed the role of digital IDs and interoperable platforms in fostering trust. Financing and Scaling Digital Innovations: Gabriel advocated for innovative PPP financing models, while I emphasized local context and interoperability in scaling digital platforms. Timestamps: [0:00] Introduction by Allen Asiimwe [5:30] Moses Kemibaro on policy gaps and infrastructure needs [15:00] Antoine Sebera on digitized trade solutions in Rwanda [25:10] Bernice Omiunu on blockchain’s role in trust-building [35:20] Gabriel Negatu on financing and PPP models [45:40] Final thoughts and actionable insights Discover how digital trade is transforming Africa’s economies through collaboration, innovation, and investment. #Trade #DigitalTrade #ECommerce #MarketPlace #Markets #SMEs #MSMEs #SmallBusiness #Traders ##Business #Commerce #AFCTA #AU #AfricanUnion #CrossBorder #EastAfrica #Kenya #Rwanda #Tanzania #Africa #Uganda #Ethiopia #Djibouti #Burundi #ATDF #Internet #DigitalMarketing #SocialMedia

In this episode of the Pure Digital Passion Podcast, I sit down with Ben Roberts, one of Kenya's and Africa’s most influential technology and digital infrastructure leaders, to explore his journey and insights on technology, innovation, and education.

We start by uncovering Ben’s early years in the UK, where access to a physics lab and home computers sparked his passion for technology. He shares how these formative experiences shaped his decision to study physics at the University of Bristol and ultimately led to a career in telecommunications.

Ben reflects on his pivotal role at Liquid Telecom, where he spearheaded the transition from satellite to fiber connectivity across Kenya and Africa. From navigating challenges like elephants trampling cables to finding innovative ways to protect infrastructure, Ben shares fascinating anecdotes about building Africa’s digital backbone.

A major highlight of our conversation is Ben’s work in STEM education. As the Board Chair of Young Scientists Kenya, he’s driving initiatives to connect schools to the internet and empower students to apply STEM concepts to solve real-world problems.

We also discuss Ben’s new ventures: Nova Space, which leverages virtual reality to enhance technical education, and Lipagas, a pay-as-you-go LPG startup tackling clean energy challenges in Kenya.

Finally, Ben shares his vision for the future of Kenya's and Africa’s technology landscape, from green energy and AI hubs to the importance of investing in digital infrastructure and policies.

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction

3:00 Early years in the UK

10:00 Transition to Africa and Liquid Telecom

20:00 Building Africa’s digital backbone

28:00 Passion for STEM education

35:00 New ventures: Nova Space and Lipagas

45:00 Vision for Africa’s tech future

50:00 Advice for young innovators

This episode is packed with insights for anyone passionate about technology, education, and Africa’s growth.

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Last week, I had the privilege of attending the Digital Hubs Strategy Conference in Kakamega County, where Kenya’s ambitious Digital Superhighway initiative took center stage. The event marked the launch of two digital hubs at Kakamega County Polytechnic and St. Paul’s Shianda County Polytechnic, key milestones in Kenya’s journey to bridge the digital divide.

This transformative effort is driven by a collaborative partnership between the Ministry of ICT and Digital Economy, Konza Technopolis, the Communications Authority of Kenya, and Huawei Kenya, among others. These digital hubs are more than access points—they are empowering communities through digital education, entrepreneurship, and opportunities for economic growth.

Throughout the day, I engaged with key stakeholders, including educators, students, and policymakers, to understand the real impact of these hubs. Here are some highlights:

Adam Lane from Huawei Kenya shared how Huawei’s contributions include high-speed broadband connectivity, ICT training, and state-of-the-art digital tools to transform institutions into modern learning hubs.

Carolyn Kamete, Principal at Kakamega County Polytechnic, explained how their hub has tripled student enrollment, empowered youth and women, and created global linkages for trainees.

Julia Opoti, Principal at St. Paul’s Shianda County Polytechnic, emphasized how digital resources have equipped trainees with critical ICT skills and increased their employability.

Students like Sharon Nekesa and Silas Mulama shared inspiring stories of earning income online through digital platforms facilitated by the hubs.

Evans Akoko, Centre Manager, highlighted how tailored training programs are creating career pathways for both trainees and community members.

Hon. Victoria Zillah, MCA Kakamega County, discussed how these hubs have not only boosted enrollment but also attracted partnerships and resources that enhance their overall impact.

The success of this initiative reflects the power of collaboration between the government, private sector, and academia. Together, they are creating ecosystems that provide the tools and skills needed to thrive in today’s digital economy.