Tech Talk Africa – Episode 7: Connecting Africa; Nigeria’s Infrastructure Paradox

Guest: Ahmed Atere, CEO of MEED Networks

In this episode of Tech Talk Africa, host Stella Gichuhi explores how ambition meets adversity in Nigeria’s digital evolution.

Joining her is Ahmed Atere, CEO of MEED Networks, an infrastructure pioneer building the country’s connectivity backbone. From constructing Nigeria’s largest campus fiber network to contributing to a 90,000-kilometer national fiber rollout, Atere reveals how MEED is threading resilience into the nation’s tech fabric. His story shows how innovation thrives even when the foundations are fragile.

Beyond infrastructure, Atere champions human capital — having trained and certified over 8,000 engineers across Africa. His philosophy is simple yet powerful: build networks, but also build people. Together, they drive digital transformation in education, government, and beyond.

For tech manufacturers and innovators, this episode provides a masterclass in localized design and infrastructure resilience. Tune in to learn how Africa is wiring its own digital future.

Credits
Host:

• Stella Gichuhi

Producer:

• James Njoroge

Executive Producers:

• Harry Hare
• Agutu Dan

Tech Talk Africa – Episode 6: Rwanda’s Digital Leap: How Policy, People and Partnerships Are Powering Transformation

Guest: Alex Ntale - Rwanda's ICT Chamber CEO.

In this episode of Tech Talk Africa, host Stella Gichuhi sits down with Alex Ntale, CEO of the Rwanda ICT Chamber, to explore how Rwanda is redefining what’s possible in digital transformation on the African continent.

Once known for its ambitious Vision 2020, Rwanda has emerged as a continental leader in technology policy, innovation, and human capital development — now setting its sights on Vision 2050. Alex unpacks how clear leadership, rapid policy execution, and public-private collaboration have fueled Rwanda’s rise as one of Africa’s most connected nations.

From laying nationwide fiber networks to empowering one million coders, Rwanda’s story is a masterclass in strategic planning and agile implementation. The conversation explores data sovereignty, AI preparedness, and smart city innovation, while emphasizing partnerships with global companies like Microsoft, Mastercard, and Zipline.

Alex also shares insights on bridging Africa’s digital skills gap and the country’s borderless approach to attracting talent and investment.

Whether you’re a policymaker, tech entrepreneur, or digital optimist, this episode offers an inspiring look at how vision, execution, and accountability can transform a nation — and light the path for Africa’s digital future.

Credits
Host:

• Stella Gichuhi

Producer:

• James Njoroge

Executive Producers:

• Harry Hare
• Agutu Dan

Tech Talk Africa – Episode 5: Africa's Internet Part 2: What comes next?

Guest: Ben Roberts - Non-Regional AFRINIC Board Member.

Ben Roberts, AfriNIC’s new non-regional independent board member, reflects on Africa’s internet governance and infrastructure. AfriNIC, which allocates IP addresses and system numbers, recently overcame legal disputes and board gaps through fresh elections.

Roberts emphasizes multi-stakeholder governance, competition, and investment, citing M-Pesa as proof of local innovation. He warns of digital dependency resulting from uneven access and reliance on global platforms, urging the development of sovereign infrastructure and the adoption of inclusive policies.

AfriNIC’s anti-shutdown proposal failed due to state resistance, yet Roberts calls for enterprise involvement, strong leadership, restored efficiency, and deeper engagement to strengthen Africa’s digital sovereignty and governance.

Tune in to Tech Talk Africa E05 and join the conversation about Africa’s evolving internet landscape.

Credits
Host:

• Stella Gichuhi

Producer:

• James Njoroge

Executive Producers:

• Harry Hare
• Agutu Dan