The MTN ICT Expo 2024 in Uganda brought together key stakeholders in the technology sector to discuss and showcase advancements in digital technology. One of the most anticipated events was the keynote address by Dr. Shikoh Gitau, the CEO and Founder of Qhala, on “Accelerating Business Transformation with Digital Technology.”
Dr. Gitau began her address by expressing pride in the increasing representation of women in technology, noting that she was one of the few female speakers at previous events. She highlighted the importance of diversity in a sector traditionally dominated by men, stating, “We are 51% of the continent,” and underscoring the need for equal representation.
Understanding digital transformation
Dr. Gitau emphasized that true digital transformation transcends the use of communication tools and social media platforms. She described it as a “universe” centered around people, emphasizing that focusing solely on technology without considering the human element leads to failure.
Dr. Gitau reflected on the transformative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which she argued accelerated the adoption of digital technologies across various sectors. She noted that many organizations that previously hesitated to embrace digital transformation were suddenly compelled to do so, as remote work and online services became essential for survival.
Dr. Gitau highlighted the urgency of digital transformation in today’s fast-paced world, sharing statistics about internet usage and the growing reliance on social media for communication.
She warned that businesses must adapt to the changing landscape to remain relevant, stating, “If you can’t meet your customer where they are, then you’re being consumed.”
Distinguishing between digitalization and digital transformation
A crucial part of her address was the distinction between digitalization and digital transformation. Dr. Gitau explained that digitalization involves improving existing processes through technology, while digital transformation is a radical rethinking of how organizations utilize technology, people, and processes to enhance customer experiences. She urged attendees to reflect on their current practices and consider whether they were merely digitizing old processes or genuinely transforming their operations.
Dr. Gitau identified five key components essential for successful digital transformation: Technology, People, Processes, Customer Experience, and Data.
The role of Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) emerged as a significant theme in Dr. Gitau’s address. She discussed how AI can expedite digital transformation, providing opportunities for businesses to innovate and improve their services.
Dr. Gitau reassured the audience that AI is not a threat to jobs but rather a tool that can enhance productivity and efficiency. She encouraged organizations to embrace AI and integrate it into their operations to remain competitive.
Dr. Gitau urged businesses to rethink their models in light of digital transformation. She posed critical questions about the necessity of traditional practices and challenged the status quo, encouraging organizations to become more efficient and responsive to customer needs.
Read About: Key takeaways from MTN Uganda’s ICT Expo 2024
