The Future of IT & Cybersecurity

CIO & CISO Think Tank

July 9, 2024 - Kenya, East Africa

Visionaries

Nicholas Kihara

Head of ICT

Kenya Wine Agencies

Think Tank Speaker

Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL), is a first line manufacturer, importer and distributor of wine, spirits and non-alcoholic beverages

Tom Mboya Opiyo

Technolgy Lead, East Africa

Unilever

Think Tank Speaker

20+ years experience in ICT covering programming, IT support, Systems Analysis and Design, Project Management and implementation, recruitment, Coaching and Mentoring, Senior level management and IT procurement. Specialties: Project Management, Programming, Systems support and analytics Operational Excellence: Continuous Improvement Lead - Operational Excellence (Current) - Driving efficiency and effectiveness by eliminating waste using six sigma lean methodologies for improved customer satisfaction, increased revenues and decreased costs.

Faith Nyaga

Senior ICT Officer

Water Resources Authority

Think Tank Speaker

An ICT professional with over 10 year's experience in the development, implementation, and monitoring of Water Resources Information Management Systems. This includes Water Resources Decision Support System, Knowledge Management, Flood Early Warning System, Climate risk assessment, Advanced Metering Infrastructure, and Laboratory Information Management System. I am passionate about water and climate-related innovation and research leading to strategic management and sustainable conservation measures in the face of water resources scarcity and climate change risks. Presently , I am actively engaging in Anticipatory and Innovative Governance.

Francis Mwangi

Group Head of IT Security & Infrastructure

Platcorp Group

Think Tank Speaker

A Technology Executive with over 10 years of experience in delivering enterprise-wide projects within scope, on time, and on budget while cutting costs, spearheading ROI-focused projects, and bridging the gap between business and technology to realize essential integration. Francis has done all these and much more under a variety of professional hats- working as Head of IT, System Support Engineer, and IT Administrator. He has led the development, deployment, and integration of IT systems and solutions, owning the full system and project management cycle- from requirements gathering to concept development, implementation, and deployment to propel changes, system, and operational efficiency. Additionally, he has been instrumental in network security, IT procurement, WIFI implementation and administration, P&L oversight and resource planning, as well as technical end-user support to elevate and enhance user experience. With strengths in big picture thinking, analysis, and interpersonal communication, his expertise includes: IT Project Management; Process Improvements; Business-Centric IT Leadership; IT Security & Compliance; Infrastructure Management; Business Continuity; Network Re-engineering!

Chumari Wachaga

Group CTO

AutoXpress

Think Tank Speaker

AutoXpress is a market leader in the sale and fitment of auto parts and accessories and servicing of vehicles in East Africa with a network of 50 branches across Kenya, Rwanda Tanzania and Uganda. It represents some of the best-known global brands in the automotive sector ranging from Bridgestone and Pirelli in the tyre sector, Bosch, and Petronas in the service parts sector. AutoXpress offers fast, efficient and truly superior service with an identifiable difference ensuring the best customer experience. With the widest product range and the largest stock in the region, we cater to retail customers, resellers, garages, and corporate fleet operators.

Grace Njuguna

Regional IT Administrator

Swisscontact

Think Tank Speaker

Result-oriented hybrid Cloud Engineer with a deep interest in both cloud solutions (Azure, OCI, AWS) and data center solutions(IBM, Vmware, HPE, Lenovo).

Amit Saxena

CIO

Ramco Plexus Ltd

Think Tank Speaker

Experience in Digital Transformation | Business Transformation | Digital Change | Digital Strategy Dynamic career of 22 years that reflects rich Africa & Indian experience and year-on-year success in IT Operations, ERP Implementation, Project Management, Data Center Management and IT Security: Establishing & maintaining clear communication with business sponsors, stakeholders & IT Teams on IT plans, policies status & risk controls Leading end-to-end execution of high valued complex projects in Global Onshore / Offshore Model as per SLAs and balancing work distribution to meet deliverables as per norms Build capability on new technologies including Bots , RPA, AI, IoT etc. Recognized as Supply Chain Specialist in end-to-end ERP implementation from gap analysis to go- live stage

Diana Gichui

Senior ICT Officer

Family Bank Ltd

Think Tank Speaker

Skilled professional with extensive experience in providing first-level support for DFS channels. My expertise also includes configuring new payment networks and payment partners to DFS channels, as well as the configuration of agents' point-of-sale (POS) systems. I excel at maintaining and updating these systems with ease, ensuring that they function efficiently. I also have extensive experience in monitoring ATM uptime, as well as the health of ATM devices. Familiarity with payment processing systems and software • Knowledge of basic accounting principles • Attention to detail and accuracy in data entry and record keeping

Stanley Njonjo

Group Head of Enterprise Architecture

Jubilee Insurance

Think Tank Speaker

As the Group Head of Enterprise Architecture at Jubilee Insurance, I lead the design, development, and enhancement of IT systems that support the business goals and strategies of the largest insurance company in East Africa. I have over 20 years of experience in technology and 13 years in the architecture domain, with a TOGAF certification and an MBA in Strategic Management.

Joan Mburu

CISO

Airtel Kenya

Think Tank Speaker

I am an IT risk and Information Security professional with over 12 years experience gained in financial services and telecommunications. I have experience in maturing Information security across an organization using NIST Cybersecurity framework and ISO 27001. I am a passionate proponent of incorporating security as a business need in today’s digitally connected world with increasing compliance and regulatory requirements. I hold CISA & CISM certifications from ISACA, and ISO 27001 Lead Implementer certificate. I was a recipient of the Business Daily Top 40 under 40 Women Award in 2016. I was also a board member of the ISACA Kenya chapter from 2014-2016. I take part in various conferences as a speaker and panelist, including annual ISACA Kenya conferences, CIO East Africa Security summit, and the first Africa CACS conference that was held in Nairobi in 2016.

July 9, 2024

Agenda

All times East Africa Time

8:30 AM-9:00 AM

Registration


9:00 AM-9:30 AM

Morning Networking


9:30 AM-9:40 AM

Opening Remarks


9:40 AM-10:05 AM
Keynote

Fortifying Cyber Security Together: A CISO's Call to Increase Cyber Transparency

In the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, the imperative to increase transparency takes center stage, driven by new laws and regulations mandating prompt reporting of cyber breaches. A notable example is the SEC's cyber disclosure rule, necessitating companies to report incidents within 72 hours. This shift from voluntary to mandatory information-sharing not only presents challenges but also opportunities. Compliance empowers organizations to construct more comprehensive defenses and actions against cyber risks. Regulatory guardrails provide confidence, allowing companies to explore, experiment, and compete securely. To stay ahead, a tech-enabled approach embedding cybersecurity across the enterprise is crucial. Looking forward, collaboration with the C-suite, particularly the Chief Risk Officer and General Counsel, is vital. Crafting a consistent narrative, setting priorities, and adapting to new cyber risk management practices become essential. Moreover, understanding board expectations, simplifying complex cyber regulations, and extending cybersecurity measures to external reporting teams are key considerations for navigating the regulatory landscape effectively.


10:10 AM-10:45 AM
Fireside Chat

Gen AI - The Hype, The Story & The Future

Gen AI, an extraordinary leap in the realm of artificial intelligence, has captured widespread attention and enthusiasm. Its narrative unfolds with rapid evolution and promises limitless potential, poised to reshape industries and redefine our interaction with technology. Amid this excitement, the critical aspect of cybersecurity takes center stage. As Gen AI continues to evolve, the imperative for robust cybersecurity measures becomes evident. Safeguarding against potential risks and vulnerabilities is crucial. Join us on this journey of unlocking Gen AI's possibilities, where the fusion of its incredible power with stringent cybersecurity practices emerges as the linchpin for a secure and promising future


10:45 AM-11:05 AM

Coffee Break


11:05 AM-11:20 AM
Vision Voices

Data Revolution Leadership: CIOs at the Helm of Modernization for Strategic Value

This session explores the pivotal role of CIOs in modernizing data to unlock its full value. In the contemporary digital landscape, data stands as a strategic asset, and CIOs are at the forefront of harnessing its potential. The abstract emphasizes the CIO's responsibility in implementing cutting-edge technologies and data management strategies that go beyond mere storage, enabling organizations to derive actionable insights. By adopting innovative approaches, such as advanced analytics, artificial intelligence, and cloud solutions, CIOs can transform data into a valuable resource, driving efficiency, innovation, and informed decision-making across the enterprise. The discussion delves into the evolving responsibilities of CIOs in leading the charge towards data modernization, ensuring organizations remain competitive and agile in an increasingly data-centric world.


11:25 AM-12:00 PM
Fireside Chat

Cloud Security

The speed, flexibility, and scale of cloud computing has fundamentally transformed business operations and competitive dynamics. As organizations accelerate innovation, an overwhelming majority of IT executives regularly cite security as the #1 challenge when operating in the cloud. With adversaries increasingly targeting cloud services with both opportunistic and targeted attacks, how can security leaders devise a multi-cloud security strategy that not only works with the business to enable agility but also protects vital corporate secrets and customer data?


12:00 PM-1:00 PM

Lunch & Networking


1:00 PM-1:25 PM
Vision Voices Keynote

Bridging the Gap: Mastering the Art of Business-Technology Harmony

Bridging the gap between business and technology is not easy and requires discipline and balance between technology, people, and business. For so many organizations today, technology is the business. Technology needs to be understood as a critical enabler in every part of the organization from the front line to the back office. It creates new value by crunching data to deliver new insights, it spurs innovation, and it disrupts traditional business models.

For business and technology leaders alike, new actions and behavioral changes can help their organizations make this shift. CIOs and CISOs must take responsibility for problems, they should convey that when technology fails, many people typically share responsibility.


1:30 PM-1:45 PM
Vision Voices

Navigating the Cyber Frontier: CISO Strategies for Effective Risk Management

In the context of effective cyber risk management, the challenge lies in keeping up with evolving technology, particularly during cloud or technology transformations. The adoption of threat intelligence,GenAI, the metaverse, and machine learning presents both opportunities and challenges, with a need for technology leaders to grasp the security implications. While these technologies enhance cyber risk management, they also offer efficiencies through task automation. Striking a balance between risks and rewards is crucial for gaining trust and staying competitive. Looking forward, organizations must explore innovative approaches to cyber risk management, emphasizing resilience against third-party risks. Collaboration with the leadership team is essential to take an enterprise-wide view of current and future threats, develop action plans, safeguard critical assets, and facilitate quick recovery. Early collaboration with the executive team is encouraged to integrate risk management into transformation strategies and extract maximum benefits from emerging technologies.


1:50 PM-2:35 PM
Panel

Unleashing Innovation: CIOs Driving New Business Models through Scalable AL/ML

In this dynamic session, we explore the symbiotic relationship between business evolution and the strategic role of Chief Information Officers. Focused on scaling artificial intelligence  for new business models, the discussion delves into how CIOs can harness the transformative power of AI to drive innovation and reshape business paradigms. Participants will gain insights into practical approaches for integrating scalable AI solutions, exploring its potential to revolutionize operational efficiency, customer engagement, and overall competitiveness. The session places a spotlight on the pivotal role of CIOs in navigating the intersection of technology and business strategy, showcasing how they can spearhead initiatives that propel organizations into the next frontier of success.


2:35 PM-2:55 PM

Networking Break


3:00 PM-3:15 PM
Vision Voices

Data Empowerment: A CISO's Guide to Unlocking Strategic Value Safely

CISOs are challenged to redefine their role not only as guardians of security but also as enablers of responsible and innovative data utilization. This directive emphasizes the importance of striking a balance between data protection and leveraging the full potential of organizational data assets. CISOs must collaborate with stakeholders to establish robust data governance frameworks, ensuring compliance with privacy regulations while facilitating the ethical and strategic use of data. By unlocking the value of data, CISOs contribute to the organization's competitiveness, innovation, and overall digital transformation. This session explores strategies for CISOs to harness the power of data responsibly, thereby positioning cybersecurity as an integral driver of business success in the data-driven era.


3:20 PM-3:35 PM
Disruptor

Cybersecurity Leadership in the Era of AI and ML: Navigating Innovation and Responsibility

In the dynamic realm of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), CISOs play a pivotal role in leveraging these advancements for enhanced cybersecurity. Strategic integration of AI and ML is essential for bolstering security measures, optimizing decision-making, and driving innovation. CISOs must adopt a comprehensive approach, considering the entire lifecycle of these technologies to ensure both efficiency and ethical use. Establishing robust governance frameworks becomes paramount, addressing biases, ensuring transparency, and minimizing unintended consequences.

Looking ahead, as AI and ML continue to advance, CISOs face evolving challenges and regulatory considerations. Proactive engagement involves staying informed about changing regulations, particularly in areas such as data privacy and ethical AI practices. CISOs should strive for a tech-enabled understanding of AI and ML systems, encompassing deployment, impact, and security measures. This approach positions organizations to navigate the regulatory landscape effectively, ensuring responsible and competitive integration of AI and ML into cybersecurity strategies.


3:40 PM-4:15 PM
Fireside Chat

Strategic Shifts: Reimagining Engineering Talent Deployment and Management in the Age of AI (GenAI)

Unlock insights into the evolving landscape of talent deployment and retention as board expectations drive CIOs and CISOs to rethink traditional IT talent models. Explore the impact of GenAI on coding processes and the software engineering lifecycle, and discover strategies for optimizing talent allocation and headcounts. Gain actionable insights into defining new roles, cultivating essential skills, and charting GenAI-centric career paths to align with organizational goals and stay ahead in a rapidly changing technological landscape.


4:15 PM-4:25 PM

Closing Remarks & Raffle Giveaway


4:30 PM-5:30 PM

Cocktail Hour