Shikoh Gitau

Dr. Shikoh is the CEO of Qhala, a company focused on digital innovation in Africa. Her career spans roles in research, design, implementation, and management of digital technologies, with an emphasis on digital transformation in emerging markets. Dr. Shikoh has held significant positions including the Head of Products – Innovation and Chief Innovation Officer at Safaricom Alpha, where she led Safaricom's digital transition. She also worked at the Africa Development Bank (AfDB), offering strategic advice on ICT adoption for service delivery, leading to the development of the Digital Government Blueprint adopted by Smart Africa. Dr. Shikoh's background includes experience with Google and Microsoft, and she is involved in several boards, steering committees, and think tanks focusing on technology in Africa. Dr. Shikoh holds a PhD and MSc in Computer Science from the University of Cape Town, South Africa. Her academic and professional work has earned her several awards, including the ASEB Summit award for Ecosystem Builder of the Year and the Women in STEM Champion of the Year.