Shikoh Gitau

Dr. Shikoh is the CEO of Qhala, a leading Digital Innovation company transforming Africa. With over a decade of expertise in digital technologies, she drives digital transformation for organizations in Africa and Emerging Markets, focusing on sectors like Agriculture, Education, Health, Payments, Retail, and Renewable Energies.

She established Safaricom Alpha, Africa's first corporate innovation hub, serving as Head of Products – Innovation and Chief Innovation Officer, leading Safaricom's digital transformation. At the Africa Development Bank, she guided governments in adopting ICT for service delivery, developing the Digital Government Blueprint. Her experience at Google and Microsoft in emerging markets further bridges business, government, and technology.

Dr. Shikoh influences ICT companies, steering committees, and think tanks across Africa and technology. She advises governments on data and digital development policies and serves on the boards of WiDEF, Longhorn, Open Institute, ANU, and IPSL, amplifying her impact in technology and the digital economy.

With a PhD and MSc in Computer Science from the University of Cape Town, South Africa, she blends academic expertise with practical acumen. Honored with awards like the ASEB Summit award and Women in STEM Champion, she is dedicated to empowering women in tech and building a robust startup ecosystem in Africa. Dr. Shikoh’s commitment to innovation drives Qhala's success and makes her a trusted advisor in digital transformation.