Speakers · Global Data Festival & Kenya Space Expo 2026

Showing 0 speakers

Chief Guest

Hon. Prof. Kithure Kindiki, E.G.H.

Deputy President

Government of Kenya

Hon. Soipan Tuya EGH

CS Defence

Ministry of Defence

Prof. Abdulrazak Shaukat

Ministry of Education

Dr. Patrick Mariru

Ministry of Defence

Eng. John Tanui

Principal Secretary, ICT and the Digital Economy

Ministry of ICT and Digital Economy

Maj Gen Bernard Waliaula

K A F Commander

K D F

Dr. Macdonald Obudho

KNBS

Brig. Hillary Kipkosgey

KSA

Ms. Jenna Slotin

CEO

GPSDD

Conference Speakers

Panelists & Speakers

Speaker

Dr Caroline Gavaert

Associate Professor

University of Twente

Speaker

Mr. Andre Parris

Chief Commercial Officer

Aistech Space

Speaker

Mr. Mirado Rafenomahenintso

Senior Analytics Engineer

DVA

Speaker

Mr. Evans Kegode

Manager, Forest Survey & Information

K F S

Speaker

Mr. Kamel Houairi

VP -EO Space Systems Engineering

Space42

Speaker

Mr. Andre Nonguierma

U N E C A

Speaker

Dr. Rendani Ndaganeni

Researcher

S A N S A

Speaker

Ms. Florence Syevuo

Executive Director

SDG Kenya Forum

Speaker

Mr Jacques Matara

Deputy Director

K S A

Speaker

Col. Andrew Nyawade

Director S S I

Kenya Space Agency

Speaker

Mr. Steven Santovasi

VP- Product Management

Microsoft

Speaker

Dr. Munzer Jahjah

C E O

Malindi Space Centre

Speaker

Mr. Raphael Kimani

Project Coordinator

UNDP

Speaker

Ms. Emily Kimathi

Climate Expert

I C P A C

Speaker

Prof. Jared Ndeda

Professor

JKUAT

Speaker

Ms. Caroline Akoth

Senior Consultant

Infrastructure Analytics

Speaker

Ms. Enjy Salah

Chairperson

GeoMakani

Speaker

Mr. Charles Murito

Regional Director

Google

Speaker

Mr. Sammy Matara

GNSS Expert

U O N

Speaker

Dr. Dana R. Thomson

Associate Director of Science Applications

CIESIN

Speaker

Rayya El Zein

Co-founder

SILT

Speaker

Mr. Martin Turuta

Co-founder & CTO

Safi

Speaker

Dr. Girmaw Abebe

Principal Researcher

Microsoft AI4G Lab

Speaker

Ms. Leonida Mutuku

AI researcher

AI4D Hub

Speaker

H.E. Dr. Wilber K. Ottichilo E.G.H

Governor

Vihiga County

Speaker

Mr. Fabrizio Scrollini

Senior Program Director Humanitarian

OpenStreetMap

Speaker

Dr. Garry Conille

Coordinator

UNSDG

Speaker

Ms. Chepkemoi Magdaline

CEO

Eldohub

Speaker

Mr. Marius Cronje

Founder

Proteus Technologies

Speaker

Ms. Charlynne Jepkosgei

Geospatial Engineer

WiSK

Speaker

Mr Paul Murage

Assistant Director

IMTR

Speaker

Mr. Daniel Njuguna

Founder and CEO

Atlancis Technologies

Speaker

Dr. Pamela Mulaku

Professor

Technical University of Kenya

Speaker

Dr. Kiringai Kamau

C E C M

Murang'a County

Speaker

Ms. Rachel Niyomufasha

Research Fellow

Disability Data Initiative

Speaker

Zeddy Misiga

ata system specialist

ICON Data and Learning Labs

Speaker

Lea Gimpel

Director of Policy and AI Lead

Digital Public Goods Alliance

Speaker

Ms. Rosemary Kuria

Director

Sopa Lodges

Speaker

Ms. Rosemary Gatahi

Head of innovation

WFP

Speaker

Ms. Faith Masibo

Research Fellow

Disability Data Initiative

Speaker

Ms. Josephine Kaaniru

Research Associate

CIPIT

Speaker

Mr. Levi Orero

CEO

Wrangla360

Speaker

Mr. Derrick Demeveng

Program Specialist, Geospatial Analysis Program Specialist, Geospatial Analysis

UNFPA HQ

Speaker

Mr. George Sie Williams

Public Health Intelligence Lead

WHO African Region

Speaker

Mr. Guillame Bigel

Director Space Division

Nordwest Assekuranzmakler

Speaker

Ms. Njiki Djemi

Community Engagement Fellow

Pollicy Data Institute,

Speaker

Mr. Ben Paul Mungyereza

AfDB

Speaker

Irving Gibran Zamora

Researcher

I N E G I

Speaker

Ms. Ana Aguilera

Project Officer

Fundación Datalat

Speaker

Dr. Mwangi Kinyanjui

Lecturer

Karatina University

Speaker

Colonel (Rtd). David K. Samoei

Director

NDOC

Speaker

Ms. Kamau Gloria Wambui

Mechanical Engineering Student

U O N

Speaker

Ms. Sabrina Juran

UNFPA Regional Advisor for Data and Population Dynamics

U N F P A

Speaker

Sheru Muuo

Regional Research Advisor

Sightsavers

Speaker

Mr. Yankho Likakhu

...

RIIS

Speaker

Tatenda Songore

Executive Director

Youth Advocates

Speaker

Yazid Salahudeen Mikail

Founder, CEO

Nest Africa AI Innovation Lab

Speaker

Josephine Appiah-Nyamekye Sanny

Director of Communications

Afrobarometer

Speaker

Paz Patiño

Inter-Regional Advisor

PARIS21

Speaker

Ms. Sian Rasdale

Chief Statistician

FCDO

Speaker

Mr. Ian Coady

Deputy Director

WorldPop

Speaker

Ms. Carlos Alberto Durán Gil

Coordinator

Research and Development Group

Speaker

Dr. Tony Omwansa

KENIA

Speaker

Ms. Janet McLaren

...

GPSDD

Speaker

Saba Tiku

Jr. Advisor on AI for Economic Development, AI Made in Africa

GIZ African Union

Speaker

Zafeer Ravat

Director of Progammes and Impact

Pan-African Collective for Evidence (PACE)

Speaker

Risper Onyango

Research and Policy Associate

Datasphere Initiative

Speaker

Al Kags

Executive Director

Open Institute

Speaker

Haoyi Chen

Coordinator

Inter-Secretariat Working Group on Household Surveys

Speaker

Aminah Jasho

Head of Strategic Communications

Equal Measures 2030

Speaker

Janat Namara

Communications and Engagement lead

Nimpamya

Speaker

Ms Paula McLeod

Head of Global Data and Statistics

...

Speaker

Mr. Dennis M. Njunge

Programmes Coordinator

GROOTS Kenya & Data and Impact Practitioner

Speaker

Mr. Jamie Robertsen

Monitoring Evaluation and Learning Specialist

GSMA Mobile for Development Foundation

Speaker

Ms. Rachel Juma

Programme and Information Management Officer

Open Institute

Speaker

Sarah Neumann

Senior Policy Officer

Germany.

Speaker

Maathangi Mohan

Data Programs and Partnerships Lead

Datocracy AI

Speaker

Silja Emmel

Senior Adviser, Statistics Norway

Statistics Norway

Speaker

Prof. Samuel Kobina

Director

UNECA

Speaker

Mr. Tensae Alemayehu

...

HEX20

Speaker

Mr. Federico Segui

Specialist in Official Statistics

Inter-American Development Bank

Speaker

Mr. Juma Sabun Saverio

Founder and Executive Director

Refugees Life Heroes Organisation

Speaker

Mr. Israel Odeajo

AI Engineer

Join Momentum UK, LoubbyAI, Divverse

Speaker

Ms. Isabelle Schmidt

UN Women East and Southern Africa Regional statistical specialist: gender

UN Women

Speaker

Mr. Trevor Monroe

Senior Program Manager

Development Data Group at the World Bank

Speaker

Ms. Michelle Wanjiku Thuo

PAYAIG Ambassador

PAYAIG

Speaker

Ms. Audrey Nafula

Student

Mount Kenya University, Nairobi Campus

Speaker

Godwin Akpan

Senior adviser, Data analytics and Use

UNFPA , HQ

Speaker

Dr. Angela Okune

Head of Strategy

Climate Sensitive Infectious Disease Network

Speaker

Miraal Kabir

Cofounder

Safi

Speaker

Ms. Florence Ogonjo

Research Fellow (AI Policy)

CIPIT

Speaker

Ms. Furaha Lydia

Community Builder

DVA

Speaker

Ms. Shaida Badiee

Board member

Open Data Watch

Speaker

Ms. Jessica Mayberry

Founder and Executive Director

Video Volunteers

Speaker

Ms. Sarah Beasley

Open SDG Lead

UK Office for National Statistics

Speaker

Mr. Christopher Harrison

Head of AI

Next Step Foundation

Speaker

Ms. Josephine Francine

...

Planetek Italia

Speaker

Ms. Samyutka Manikumar

Africa Coordinator

DarkSky International,

Speaker

Mr. Titus Kiragu

TBD

StarVision

Speaker

Dr. Anthony Muchiri

Professor Mechatronic Engineering

JKUAT

Speaker

Mr. Derrick Ngigi

...

GODAN

Speaker

Mr. Zachary Misiani

Senior Climate Scientist

K M S A

Speaker

Mr. Charles Kimpolo

Senior Program Manager

AIMS-NEI

Speaker

Nolufefe Zukulu

Research technologist

S A M R C

Speaker

Maj. Aloyce Were

Deputy Director

K S A

Speaker

Ms Sophia Muhuri

Head of Cartography & Mapping

S O K

Speaker

Stefano Carosio

Executive director

STAM Srl, Italy

Speaker

Ms. Gayatri Ramnath

Data Manager

Equality Insights

Speaker

Ms. Nandi Mtethwa

Engagement Manager

RIIS

Speaker

Amb. Matt Baugh

UK Ambassador

British Embassy Kenya

Speaker

Ms. Meriem Ait Ouyahia

Coordinator

Open Data Watch

Speaker

Mr. Felix Okech

Head-Relief Operations

W F P

Speaker

Dr. Vimalkumar Bhandari

Scientist

I S R O

Speaker

Mr. John Kamara

Enterprise AI Futurist

Adanian Labs

Speaker

Ms. Carol Nyaguthi

Dark Sky Advocate

DarkSky Kenya

Speaker

Dr Susan Murabana

C E O

The Travelling Telescope

Speaker

Ms. Leksmi Rajagopal

Astronomy development

Turkana Basin Institute

Speaker

Ms. Rose Bukania

Kenya Ministry of Labour & Social Protection

...

Speaker

Eng. Peter Njuguna

Geospatial Engineer

K P L C

Speaker

Ms. Astha Kapoor

Founder

Aapti Institute

Speaker

Prof Washington Yotto Ochieng

Professor

Imperial College, London

Speaker

Mr. Dennis M. Njunge

Programmes Coordinator

GROOTS Kenya

Speaker

Amb. Philip Thigo, MBS

Special Envoy

government of kenya

Speaker

Mr. Dennis Mwaniki

Geospatial data expert

UN-Habitat

Speaker

Ms Shereen Zorba

Executive Secretary

UN SBPF

Speaker

Mr. Erick Sande

Data Values Advocate

Data Values

Speaker

Dr Melissa Omino

IP expert

Strathmore

Speaker

Ms. Joan Chesoni

Principal Legal

Treasury

Speaker

Mr. Aidan Eyakuze

CEO

Open Government

Speaker

Mr. Abhas Jha

Manager for Urban Development and Disaster Risk Management

World Bank

Speaker

Dr. Eldah Onsomu

CEO

KIPPRA

Speaker

Mr. Dom Haslam

Director

SightSavers

Speaker

Dr. Yenca Migoya Orue

Space Weather and Ionospheric Researche

,Abdus Salam International Centre

Speaker

Ms. Gloria Wambui

Mechanical Engneer

U o N

Speaker

Mr. Edward Anderson

Digital Earth Partnership

Workd bank

Speaker

Dr. Yuliya Tarabalka

VP Geospatial Solutions

Space42

Speaker

Dr. Jacqueline Onyango

Senior Deputy Director

K I C D

Speaker

Ms. Henrike Hernstein

Project Manager

Expertise France

Speaker

Mr. Kennedy Ayoti

CEO

Sopa Lodges

Speaker

Prof Cho Mengu

Director of Laboratory of Lean Satellite Enterprises and In-Orbit Experiments

KYUTECH

Speaker

Dr. Karanja Mutitu

Director

C E M A S T E A

Speaker

Mr. David Muhati

Air Traffic Management Specialist

KCAA

Speaker

Mr. Gamal Abouzeid

Strategic Business Dev

Planetek

Speaker

Mr. Andrew Zolli

Chief Impact Officer

Planetlabs

Speaker

Prof. Miguel Mendez

Head of Space Robotics

Luxembourg University

Speaker

Ms. Husna Mbarak

Lead - Digital and Governance

UN-FAO

Speaker

Dr. Paolo Marzioli

Assistant Professor

Sapienza

Speaker

Ms. Charlene Migwe

Deputy Regional Director

ID insights

Speaker

Ms. Nduati Kariuki

TBD

World Bank

Speaker

Dr Bruno Nava

Associate Research Scientist

Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics

Speaker

Ms. Nehali Anupriya

Lead – Capacity Development for D R R

U N - D R R

Speaker

Dr. Sisco Auala

Professor

Namibia University of Science and Technology

Speaker

Mr. Kimani Wanyoike

C E O

LEO Sky

Speaker

Mr. Gideon Abako

Researcher

I F R A D

Speaker

Ms. Sabrina Juran

Regional Advisor

U N F P A

Speaker

Eng. Joshua Mochache

Staff Engineer

Bell Flight

Speaker

Dr. Zolana Joao

Director General

INACOM

Speaker

Ms. Thandikile Mbuvundule

TBD

Africa Space Agency

Speaker

Dr. Matthew Olumide Adepoju

Director General

NASDRA

Speaker

Ms. Linet Kwamboka

Executive Director

EquiLabs

Speaker

Ms. Anita Antwiwaa

...

Speaker

Dr. Caroline Achieng' Ouko

TBD

CETRAD

Speaker

Mr. Frederick De Ridder

TBD

Mura Space

Speaker

Mr. James McCarthy

TBD

Global Forest Watch

Speaker

Mr. Ross Hamilton

TBD

Space Networks

Speaker

Mr. Victoria Montag

TBD

Mura Space

Speaker

Mr. Hawkins Muli

G M

Fahari Aviation

Speaker

Dr. Deb Jyoti pal

Senior Vice President

GalaxEye

Speaker

Mr. Rebelo Lisa-Maria

TBD

DEA

Speaker

Mr. Ayman Mahmoud

TBD

Egyptian Space Agency

Speaker

Ms. Lorien Innes

Business and Sustainability Manager

ESRI

Speaker

Eng. Alex Wanda

GNSS Expert

SatNav

Speaker

Ms. Amira Hussein

Director of Space Environment and Space Weather Department

Egyptian Space Agency

Speaker

Dr. Lorenzo Desimone

TBD

UN-FAO

Speaker

Mr. Bruno Kyamulesire

TBD

Kyambogo University

Speaker

Dr. Nale Mudau

Data Manager

SANSA

Speaker

Mr. Charles Muya

M D

Measurement Systems

Speaker

Mr. Glen Otieno

Entrepreneur

...

Speaker

Ms. Wendy Kuyoh

Data Protection Advisor

I C T L C

Speaker

Ms. Jill Hanas

...

S A M R C

Speaker

Ms. Anne Gitau

Director Navigation

K C A A

Speaker

Ms. Lorna Omondi

Lead Strategic Partnerships

Google

Speaker

Dr. Amal Chandran

Small Sat Chief Engineer

Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics and CEO HEX20

Speaker

Prof. Antarpreet Singh Julta

Director

U S G S

Speaker

Mr. Daniel Haywood

M D

Ramani

Speaker

Prof. Babatunde Rabiu

Research Director

National Space Research & Development Agency

Speaker

Mr Michael Kigathi

Digital Agriculture Specialist

F A O Kenya

Speaker

Dr Awuor Adero

Space physicist

Technical University of Kenya

Speaker

Ms. Annita Mwagiru

Project Management Officer

he Global Partnership

Speaker

Ms. Esparanza Magpantay

Co-Lead-

ITU

Speaker

Mr. David Lemayian

Regional Director

Open Mapping Hub (ESA Hub)

Speaker

Mr. Patrick Andika

Deputy Director

K I C D

Speaker

Mr. David Engoke

Software Engineer

K S A

Speaker

Mr. Josh Powell

C E O

Development Gateway

Speaker

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Faith Njoki Karanja

Associate Professor

University of Nairobi

Speaker

Ms. Florence Syevuo

Executive Director

SDGs Kenya Forum

Speaker

Mr. Michael Breetzke

Director

SWIFT GEOSPATIAL

Speaker

Prof Godfrey Makokha

Taita Taveta University

Speaker

Ms. Manuel Hernando Pava

Coordinator of the Prospecting and Data Analysis Technical Group

DIRPEN – DANE Colombia

Speaker

Ms. Irene Mwoga

Regional Digital Transformation Coordinator

U N E P

Speaker

Hon. Dr. Gideon Ochanda

Kenyan Parliament

Speaker

Mr. Marius Cronje

C E O

Proteus Technologies

Speaker

Dr. Phillip Osano

Chief Operating Officer

CIFOR-ICRAF

Speaker

Mohamed Bahero

Innovation Officer

K R C

Speaker

Dr. Charles Konyango

C E C M

Kisumu County

Speaker

Dr. Clifford Okembo

Director

Clifford Geo-Consult

Speaker

Dr Joseph Olwendo

Space Weather Research Scientist

Pwani University

Speaker

Ms. Vivianne Meta

Managing Director

LocateIT

Speaker

Mr David Adieno

COO

iamtheCODE

Speaker

Dr. Shohei Aoki

Adjunct Associate Professor

JKUAT

Speaker

Mr. Davis Adieno

Chief Operating Officer

iamtheCODE

Speaker

Dr. Daniel Okoh

space physicist

N A S D R A

Speaker

Mr. Rosario Viglotti

...

Thales Alenia Space

Speaker

Ms. Joan Tanin

Education and Outreach officer

KSA

Speaker

Mr. Bendon Murgor

Co-founder

Adanian Labs

Speaker

Ms. Susan Gatura

CEO

Phoenix KE Analytics

Speaker

Mr. Korir Sing'oei

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Speaker

Mr. Charles Mwangi

Technical Director

K S A

Dr Caroline Gavaert

Associate Professor

University of Twente

Biography

Dr. Caroline Gevaert is an Associate Professor at the University of Twente – Faculty of Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation and a part-time advisor for the World Bank, specializing in geospatial artificial intelligence (GeoAI) for sustainable development. Her PhD research on drone-based GeoAI for slum upgrading received a cum-laude distinction from the University of Twente the prestigious NCG JM Tienstra Research Award and earned them a spot in the New Scientist top 15 Science Talents from Belgium and the Netherlands.

Rapidly advancing to Associate Professor within five years of her PhD, Caroline has secured major grants, including a personal research grant (NWO-Veni) for integrating Responsible AI into GeoAI and an NWO-MVI project with 510, an initiative of the Netherlands Red Cross and UNICEF on ethical AI for disaster response. She is member of the Dutch Academy of Sciences (KNAW) Dutch Young Academy and the Dutch Academy of Sciences Council for Natural and Technical Sciences. Her research focuses on developing GeoAI methods tailored to Low- and Middle-Income Countries, tackling challenges such as data scarcity, urban complexity, bias mitigation, and explainability to ensure these technologies support real-world decision-making in critical development contexts.

Col. Andrew Nyawade

Director S S I

Kenya Space Agency

Biography

Col. Andrew Nyawade is a Systems Engineer at the Kenya Space Agency and currently serves as the Acting Director for Space Systems and Infrastructure. With over two decades of experience spanning academia, industry, and government, he has developed extensive expertise in space systems engineering, satellite operations, project management, and strategic policy development.

He has played a key role in advancing Kenya’s national space capabilities, including leading and supporting Space Weather and nanosatellite development initiatives under the Agency’s research and capacity-building programmes. He has also been actively involved in the implementation of Space Weather monitoring and ionospheric research projects aimed at strengthening regional forecasting, resilience, and operational preparedness capabilities.

Andrew holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from the University of Nairobi and a Master’s degree in Space Systems and Services from the University of Rome. His research interests include Digital Signal Processing and Image Analysis, and he is also passionate about community development initiatives.

Ms. Emily Kimathi

Climate Expert

I C P A C

Biography

Emily Kimathi is a Climate Monitoring and Early Warning Expert at the IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC) based in Nairobi, Kenya. She specializes in the application of geospatial technologies, climate information, Earth observation, and field-based data to strengthen pest risk monitoring, early warning, and decision-support systems for agriculture and food security.

At IGAD, Emily leads regional initiatives that promote data-driven collaboration, coordination, and innovation in the management of transboundary pests. Her work contributes to strengthening regional preparedness, improving access to actionable early warning information, and supporting integrated pest management approaches that enhance food systems resilience across the Horn of Africa.

She has authored and co-authored more than 20 scientific publications on pest risk research, with a focus on innovative modelling approaches that examine the links between climate variability, climate change, pest dynamics, and food security. Her work aligns closely with efforts to harness data, technology, space-enabled intelligence, and partnerships to support resilient and sustainable development.

Mr. Sammy Matara

GNSS Expert

U O N

Biography

Sammy Mwangi MATARA is a Licensed Land Surveyor, a Licensed Drone Pilot, and a Full Member of the Institution of Surveyors of Kenya. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Geospatial Engineering at the University of Nairobi, where he also serves as a Tutorial Fellow. He holds a Second Level Specializing Master's degree in Navigation and Related Applications (Honours) from the prestigious Politecnico di Torino, Italy, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Geospatial Engineering (Honours) from the University of Nairobi, Kenya.
Beyond academia, Sammy has an impressive track record of delivering high-impact surveying and geospatial consultancy projects across Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, and South Sudan for over sixteen years. His project portfolio spans geodetic surveys, cadastral surveys, sectional property surveys, topographic mapping, GIS, engineering setting out, infrastructure corridor surveys, and resettlement action planning for major national and internationally funded projects.
Sammy is a published researcher and an internationally recognized geodetic expert; his recent project was designing a modern Geodetic Reference Frame for Kenya, funded by the World Bank.

Ms. Chepkemoi Magdaline

CEO

Eldohub

Biography

Chepkemoi Magdaline is a Kenyan
tech innovator and entrepreneur with
over 12 years of experience in
technology, business development,
and mentorship. As the CEO and
Founder of Eldohub, she spearheads
initiatives that empower youth,
women, and marginalized groups
through digital skills, business
coaching, and innovative technology
solutions. With a solid academic
foundation, including a Master’s in
Mobile Telecommunication and
Innovation from Strathmore
University, she blends technical
expertise with entrepreneurial vision.
Chepkemoi has led transformative
projects such as the Miliki Business
Accelerator, Sasakazi digital platform,
and North Rift Women in STEM,
reaching over 25,000 youth and women across Kenya and beyond. Her leadership extends
to roles like, former Chairperson of the Association of Countrywide Innovation Hubs, former
world ambassador Women Entrepreneurship Day. Recognized with awards like the Head of
State Commendation, and the Anita Borg Pass It On Award, she is celebrated for her
contributions to science, technology, and economic empowerment and was Named among
top 25 women in the digital space and among the 20 faces of science in Kenya. A Mandela
Washington Fellow, Techwomen fellow, Alibaba e-founders fellow and advocate for STEM
and Innovation.

Ms. Pauline Okeyo

Co-Chair, Data Infrastructure Community of Practice

AfriGEO

Biography

Pauline Okeyo is a geospatial professional with over 15 years of experience, currently serving as a Senior Solution Engineer at Esri for the Central Asia, Middle East, and Africa region, where she supports organizations in applying GIS to address business challenges, strengthen resilience, and advance sustainable development goals. In her role, she works closely with education, non-profit, and government institutions at both national and regional levels to expand the use of location intelligence, Earth observation, and spatial analytics in decision-making and innovation across the region. Prior to joining Esri, Pauline managed the training and services portfolio across five countries as the Professional Services Manager at Esri Eastern Africa and earlier worked in biodiversity management for the Kenya government.

Beyond her professional role, Pauline actively contributes to continental geospatial and Earth observation initiatives. She serves as Co-Chair of the AfriGEO Data Infrastructure Community of Practice, supporting collaboration and knowledge exchange around Earth observation data and digital infrastructure across Africa, and is also a member of the Digital Earth Africa Technical Advisory Committee. Pauline has also been actively involved in mentorship and accelerator initiatives supporting young professionals and techpreneurs across Africa. She regularly contributes to capacity development programmes, GeoAI and conservation-focused engagements, youth innovation initiatives, and institutional advisory in strengthening geospatial education and workforce development. Her work and thought leadership have also been featured through platforms and forums including Arabian Business, Discovering Africa Through Technology, Data Science Nigeria, and Business Daily Africa.

Pauline holds an MSc. in Geospatial Information Science, a bachelor’s degree in Geography, and certifications as a Project Management Practitioner, CompTIA CTT+ Trainer, and Enterprise Geodata Management Associate. She is currently pursuing an Executive MBA at Hult International Business School, with a focus on leadership, innovation, and global business strategy.

Ms. Charlynne Jepkosgei

Geospatial Engineer

WiSK

Biography

What happens when a young African woman decides that space belongs to everyone and puts her skills to work proving it? This is Charlynne Jepkosgei - a Geospatial Engineer and space ecosystem builder on a mission to put Africa on the global space map and more so ensure women are at the frontier.

With over seven years of experience spanning academia, government and international development, Charlynne translates Earth Observation data into practical solutions addressing climate resilience, food security and sustainable development across Africa.

She is the Founder of Women in Space Kenya (WiSK) - a professional community dedicated to empower more women into the space industry through running a number of programs including mentorship and has even successfully convened the inaugural African Women in Space Conference (AWiSC 2025) to spotlight and amplify women's contribution in the industry. Her exemplary work has recently been featured on BBC News and has also been recognised as an Emerging Space Leader by the International Astronautical Federation (2025) and recently recognized and awarded as an impactful Young African Space Professional by the African Space Agency (2026).

She is also actively involved in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within Africa’s emerging space economy. She has been an Africa Earth Observation Challenge (AEOC) Finalist (2024) and subsequently served as an AEOC Judge (2025) and Act-in-Space Judge (2026) bringing hands-on experience in assessing innovation, entrepreneurship feasibility and impact thus strengthening Africa’s space innovation ecosystem.

Driven by a deep commitment to inclusive innovation and international cooperation in the space industry, Charlynne is here to amplify Africa's space voice.

Dr. Pamela Mulaku

Professor

Technical University of Kenya

Biography

Dr. Pamela Ochungo is a lecturer at the School of Surveying and Spatial Sciences at the Technical University of Kenya and a Researcher with the MAEASaM project at Cambridge university, UK. She holds a PhD in Conservation Ecology from Stellenbosch University, SA, a Master of Science in Geoinformation Science from Manchester Metropolitan University, UK, and a Bachelor of Science in Surveying from the University of Nairobi, Kenya. She is the current representative of TUK to the Kenya Space Agency, working on specific projects. She is also heavily involved in the Global Monitoring for Environment and Security (GMES) and serves as a bureau member of the Women in GMES group. She has received grants from the National Geographic Society (NGS) and the European Space Agency (ESA), among others. Her current interests include the application of innovative machine learning classification algorithms to research and development processes, as well as exploring the potential of SAR interferometric techniques. She is a full member of the Institution of Surveyors of Kenya (ISK) and a formal mentor for the Innovate with EU Space Data programme, the African Women in GIS programme and the Women in Space Kenya mentorship programme.

Dr. Ochungo has published several papers in peer-reviewed journals and currently has over 900 citations.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamela-ochungo-phd-misk-25727320/

Inspiring Quote
“Science becomes most powerful when it is used to understand our own landscapes and improve the lives of the communities around us.”

Stefano Carosio

Executive director

STAM Srl, Italy

Biography

Stefano Carosio is the Executive Director of STAM, an engineering and technology consulting SME specializing in space and defence. He graduated in Chemical Engineering in 1994 and was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Innovation Management in 2012. With 30 years of experience in engineering consultancy, technology transfer, and the commercialization of space technologies, he has built extensive expertise at the intersection of innovation, industry, and market development.
From 1996 to 2016, Mr. Carosio played a pivotal role in the European Space Agency’s Technology Transfer Network, serving as Head of the Italian node. During this period, he contributed to the commercialization of space assets and laboratories, supported SME innovation, and helped foster cross-sector technology transfer. In 2021, the European Commission invited him to join its expert group on EU policies and programmes for the space, defence, and aeronautics industries, where his contribution focused on technology transfer and industrial synergies.
Today, he continues to play a leading role in technology transfer and open innovation. At STAM, he coordinates activities related to the ESA Technology Broker for Italy and contributes to initiatives that connect space and non-space markets. He also acts as ESA InCubed Ambassador for Italy, supporting the identification and mentoring of innovative companies and their disruptive business projects within the ESA InCubed programme. In this role, he helps companies understand programme opportunities, shape high-potential proposals, and accelerate the market uptake of Earth Observation-based solutions. He is also actively involved in the African Business Innovation Lab in Kenya, implemented within the Africa-EU Space Partnership Programme framework in collaboration with KSA to accelerate space-based innovation and entrepreneurship in Kenya as pilot for future scale-up at continent level.

Mr. John Kamara

Enterprise AI Futurist

Adanian Labs

Biography

John Kamara is one of Africa’s leading technical and solution experts with a strong layer of experience in enterprise artificial intelligence in financial services, partnering with the continent’s largest banks, insurers and telecommunications groups to translate AI from concept into production-grade capability. His practice spans executive strategy, regulatory engagement, data and platform architecture, and product design enabling institutions to deploy AI responsibly and commercially across credit, payments, customer experience, and digital assets. He is also the founder of the AI Centre of Excellence one of the oldest AI companies in Kenya since 2019 and the AI for leaders program since 2023 where he has provided knowledge and continuous support for over 100 CEOs and over 250 C-Level executives. He has supported over 8 institutions develop and implement their AI strategies at global scale.
John has carried deep secondary-market expertise into his AI advisory work, giving the institutions he serves a uniquely commercial lens on how AI reshapes risk, liquidity, distribution, and competitive positioning across African markets. John spent the better part of his life in Ireland before moving to Africa in 2017 and work for the likes of Yahoo, Digicel, BMC Software, Google and PocketKings in Ireland and globally.

Dr Susan Murabana

C E O

The Travelling Telescope

Biography

Susan Murabana Owen is a visionary science communicator and entrepreneur with
over a decade of experience advancing astronomy and space education across
Africa. As CEO and Co-Founder of The Travelling Telescope, she has brought handson astronomy experiences to over half a million students, inspiring curiosity and
scientific thinking in classrooms and communities across the continent.
A pioneer in Africa’s emerging astro-tourism sector, Susan has led innovative
partnerships with schools, tourism operators, and science institutions to make the
universe more accessible. Her work blends strategic leadership with a passion for
inclusion, reaching underserved audiences and sparking new educational and
economic possibilities through the lens of the stars.
Beyond her work with The Travelling Telescope, she has served as the President of
the Rotary Club of Nairobi and sits on the boards of the International Planetarium
Society and World Space Week, contributing to global efforts in science outreach
and public engagement.
Susan’s contributions have been recognized by the Europlanet Society and featured
on platforms including CNN African Voices, BBC, Al Jazeera, and The Guardian. She
continues to champion the role of science, education, and storytelling in shaping
Africa’s future

Dr. Yuliya Tarabalka

VP Geospatial Solutions

Space42

Biography

Yuliya Tarabalka is the Vice President of Geospatial Solutions at Space42, where she
leads the development of cutting-edge geospatial intelligence platforms that are
transforming decision-making across governments, industries, and humanitarian sectors.

She holds a European PhD from the Institut Polytechnique of Grenoble and the University
of Iceland (2010), and an Habilitation to Direct Research (HdR) from the University Côte
d’Azur (2017), focused on AI-driven solutions for remote sensing imagery. Her research
journey spans leading institutions including the Norwegian Defence Research
Establishment (FFI), NASA, CNES, and Inria, where she pioneered AI tools for the
reconstruction and update of the Digital Earth.

From 2019 to 2024, Yuliya served as Head of R&D at LuxCarta, where she led the
development of automated cartography solutions and the creation of a Digital Earth Twin.
She has co-authored over 150 international scientific publications, cited more than 11,000
times. Yuliya has delivered over 500 hours of lectures at leading European universities and
is internationally recognized for her contributions to geospatial AI.

At Space42, Yuliya is driving the vision behind platforms like gIQ, which received the
Future Fit Seal Award in May 2025, and initiatives such as Map Africa, which are
redefining how satellite data and AI can be used to build a smarter, safer, and more
equitable future. Her leadership is also shaping the next generation of Emirati talent
through programs like the Space Academy – Earth Observation Training, developed in
partnership with the UAE Space Agency.

As she looks ahead, Yuliya remains committed to harnessing space-based intelligence to
address global challenges – ensuring that geospatial solutions not only support
sustainability and resilience, but also deliver a better future for each of us.

Eng. Joshua Mochache

Staff Engineer

Bell Flight

Biography

25 years of hands-on experience in Aerospace structural design and analysis work, as well as academic excellence with a PhD in Aerospace engineering - current adjunct faculty lecturing mechanical and aerospace engineering courses at University of Texas at Arlington.

Technical lead on the Bell-Boeing V-22 Osprey, supporting Structural Appraisal of Fatigue Effects (SAFE). Responsible for leading and coordinating the structures, software and flight test teams at Bell, Boeing and US NAVAIR supporting SAFE for this complex tiltrotor aircraft. Co-Author of the best HUMS paper at AHS 62 https://vtol.org/news/feb-paper-of-the-month-now-available.

Specialized in aerospace vehicle stress, fatigue and damage tolerance (DT) analysis with expert knowledge of fatigue and crack growth testing and analysis methods using AFGROW and NASGRO. Expanded responsibility in structural health monitoring (SHM), integrated vehicle health monitoring (IVHM), flight test and evaluation.

Supported development of substantiation methods to meet FAA's fatigue and DT requirements for metal and composite Principal Structural Elements (PSE) per 14 CFR 29.571, 29.573, 29.613 etc., - with PhD thesis work directly relating to solutions for fatigue and DT evaluation of additively manufactured PSEs: https://rc.library.uta.edu/uta-ir/handle/10106/31006

Early experience as a structures and systems designer of both fixed wing and rotary wing components on the Cessna Citation X, XL+ and Mustang and the Bell 429, with over 10,000hrs of CATIA V4/V5 design experience, followed by external loads and stress analysis, makes me a well-rounded aerospace engineering problem solver.

Active Private Pilot, with over 800 flight hours; an aircraft owner for over 15 years and a volunteer math/science tutor for youths at local churches and STEM events.

Ms. Lorna Omondi

Lead Strategic Partnerships

Google

Biography

Lorna Ogolla Omondi leads strategic partnerships for Google's Research division in Africa, focusing on the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to address pressing societal challenges across the Global South. Her work centers on forging collaborations that leverage Google's technology to create scalable and impactful solutions. Through her work, Lorna is committed to ensuring that AI's development and application are inclusive and directly contribute to the social and economic well-being of the African continent.
Before focusing on AI partnerships, Lorna played a pivotal role in building Google's global technical infrastructure. As a leader in worldwide supply planning and operations for Google's Data Centers, she managed multi-billion dollar investment strategies and led the team that provided global recommendations on where, when, and what kind of data centers to build.

Lorna Omondi's career has been defined by a unique trajectory, moving from shaping the foundational backbone of global technology to architecting a future where AI delivers transformative solutions for Africa. This journey gives her a critical perspective on the entire technology stack, from the physical infrastructure to the intelligent systems now reshaping our world.

Her extensive academic qualifications include a Master of Science in Management Science and Engineering from Stanford University, a Master of Philosophy in Management Science and Operations from the University of Cambridge, and a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from MIT.

Prof. Antarpreet Singh Julta

Director

U S G S

Biography

Dr. Antar Jutla is a Professor in the Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences at the University of Florida, USA. He concurrently serves as the Director of the United States Geological Survey’s Water Resources Research Center, where he leads national efforts to advance water resource management through rigorous scientific inquiry and engineering innovation.

Dr. Jutla earned his Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Tufts University in Massachusetts. His scholarly work is rooted in the foundational principles of civil and environmental engineering, with a particular emphasis on hydrology, water quality, and environmental systems analysis. Dr. Jutla established the GeoHealth and Hydrology Laboratory, an interdisciplinary research platform that integrates traditional hydrologic modeling with advanced remote sensing techniques and machine learning algorithms. This innovative approach enables the identification of spatio-temporal patterns in environmental data, facilitating predictive modeling of pathogen emergence and contaminant dispersion in aquatic systems.
Dr. Jutla’s research group is among the pioneers in developing real-time predictive frameworks for cholera outbreaks, leveraging satellite-derived environmental data to inform public health interventions. His current work includes modeling the distribution and transport of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in coastal and estuarine environments, contributing to the broader understanding of persistent organic pollutants in hydrologic systems.
His research has received sustained support from leading federal and international agencies, including the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the United States National Institutes of Health (NIH), the National Science Foundation (NSF), the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), and the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT).

Dr. Jutla’s work exemplifies the integration of classical civil and environmental engineering methodologies with cutting-edge technological tools to address some of the most pressing challenges in global water sustainability and public health.

Mr Michael Kigathi

Digital Agriculture Specialist

F A O Kenya

Biography

Michael is a Digital Agriculture Specialist with FAO Kenya, with extensive experience in advancing digital transformation within the agrifood sector.

He provides technical leadership in the design, deployment, and institutionalization of digital agriculture systems in close collaboration with the Government of Kenya, county governments, and development partners.

His work focuses on strengthening Digital Public Infrastructure for agriculture, data-driven planning, evidence-based decision-making, and the responsible use of emerging technologies in agrifood systems.

Through FAO Kenya, He plays a leading role in the implementation and scaling of key national and regional digital agriculture platforms, including:

· Kenya Integrated Agriculture Management Information System (KIAMIS) – The national digital platform supporting farmer registration, agricultural service delivery, input distribution, monitoring, and data-informed planning.

· National Land Information Management System (NLIMS) – Kenya’s digital land governance platform that enhances land administration, tenure security, spatial planning, and linkages between land information and land use data.

· FAO Digital Villages Initiative (DVI) – an initiative promoting inclusive rural digital transformation, digital advisory services, innovation, and improved access to services for farming communities.

· Hand-in-Hand Geospatial Platform – a FAO-led analytical platform that applies geospatial intelligence, data integration, and advanced analytics to inform investment planning and agrifood systems transformation.

· FAO ESTELLA – a regional initiative that integrates Earth Observation, artificial intelligence, farmer registries, and ground-truth data to strengthen the production, validation, and use of crop data.

Through these initiatives, Michael contributes to the modernization of agricultural data systems, improved public service delivery, enhanced climate resilience, and the development of more inclusive, transparent, and evidence-based agrifood systems in Kenya and the wider region

Mr. Victor Otieno

Managing Director

Viffa Consult

Biography

Victor Otieno MBA (Entrepreneurship), BCOM, CPA (K) is the Managing Director of Viffa Consult , Chairperson Data governance and infrastructure Community of Practice (COP) under The Kenya Space Agency, former County Chief Officer in Charge of Digital economy and startups in Nairobi City County and former Policy advisor to the Association of startup and SME enablers of Kenya (ASSEK) board.

Victor Leads VIFFAs mission in supporting evidence based enabling policies and programs for MSMEs and Startups in collaboration with enterprise support organisations (ESOs), Business Member organisations (BMOs), Development partners, national government ministries, departments, agencies and county governments.

Victor is deeply passionate about the African Entrepreneur and has worked with over 500 organizations in over 5 African countries in East and Southern Africa.

Victor has worked with over 500 organizations in Africa and globally.; AUDA-NEPAD, Ministry of EAC and Regional Development Department of Business Reforms and Transformation-Kenya , Ministry of cooperatives and MSME development, Ministry of ICT and The Digtial Economy, County governments of Kisumu, Nakuru and Uasin Gishu, Kenya space agency, Expertise France, Estonian Centre for International Development (ESTDEV), SNV Kenya, GIZ, UK Tech Hub-Kenya, Afrilabs, Strathmore Business School (SBS), National Environmental Trust Fund (NETFUND), Kenya National Federation of Jua Kali Associations (KNFJKA) Startup entrepreneur support organizations (ESOs) including Ihub, Pangea, IbizAfrica, SOMO, Ongoza among others)

Victor has participated in MSME and Startups policy discourse in Kenya and across the African continent such as; (1) Development of Kenya AI and Emerging Technology Policy, (2) Development of Kenya Earth Observation Data Sharing Framework 2026 and National Earth Observation Data Council , (3) Development of Kenya Financial Inclusion Policy 2026, (4) Review of Kenya’s 2020 MSE policy and development of MSME policy 2025, (5) Development of 8 policies for the county governments of Kisumu, Nakuru and Uasin Gishu, (6) Framework for the development of the African union guidance note on corporate governance, targeted review of Big 4 sectors spear headed by The African Peer Review Mechanism (NEPAD-APRM) , (7) development of Common Payment Policy guidelines towards a COMESA digital payment Scheme for MSMEs , (8) Collaboration framework between MSMEs/Jua Kali and TVET sub sector in Kenya (Key output being Recognition of prior learning policy), (9) Developed Kenya’s Startup bill

Mr. Josh Powell

C E O

Development Gateway

Biography

Joshua Powell is the VP for digital program innovation at IREX, and chief executive officer of Development Gateway: an IREX Venture, where he leads the organization’s strategic direction and operational performance. Josh has played a key role in global multi-stakeholder initiatives, ensuring that international data standards and practices align with the needs of country systems and institutions.

With more than 15 years of experience at the intersection of digital, data, and international development, he has worked across program design and leadership, policy analysis, government engagement, and digital innovation worldwide. Josh has worked with a range of leading philanthropies, as well as multilateral and bilateral development agencies. He chairs the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development Data Technical Advisory Group, was a two-term member of the Millennium Challenge Corporation’s Advisory Council, is a co-founder and senior advisor of Civic Strength Partners, chairs the board of Open Data Watch, and serves on the Advisory Board of both IDinsight and Athena Infonomics.

Josh holds a master’s degree in public policy from Brigham Young University and a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Baltimore.

Ms. Christine Ajulu

Open Institute

...

Biography

Christine Ajulu is The Deputy Executive Director at the Open Institute, a Kenya-based
technology organization. She is a passionate advocate for strong public health systems, with
expertise in social advocacy, policy development, and community empowerment. Her work is
grounded in a deep commitment to partnering with citizens in supporting them to move beyond
passive participation and become active agents of change within their own contexts.
Working at the intersection of data and development, Christine harnesses the power of data to
influence policy and advance sustainable development. She collaborates closely with diverse
stakeholders to collect, analyze, and interpret data that reveals developmental inequities and
unmet community needs. By translating complex data into clear, actionable insights, she
enables communities to effectively advocate for improved governance and access to resources.
Her commitment to data-driven decision-making ensures that interventions are both effective
and equitable, particularly for marginalized and underserved populations.
Christine envisions a society in which everyone; women and men, young and old, rich and poor
can access quality healthcare without physical, financial, or social barriers. She is also a strong
proponent of women’s economic empowerment, firmly believing that every woman should have
her own source of income, no matter how modest, as a foundation for dignity, autonomy, and
long-term wellbeing.

Mr. Charles Mwangi

Technical Director

K S A

Biography

Charles Mwangi is a distinguished leader and technical expert with extensive experience in Space Technology, Earth Observation, and policy development. Currently serving as the Acting Technical Director at the Kenya Space Agency. His work has focused on supporting the development of space-related systems and leveraging space-derived data for societal benefits and decision/policy support.

Notably, Mwangi has represented Kenya in global forums like the Group on Earth Observations (GEO) and the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS). Charles currently serves as member of the multiple advisory committees including Digital Earth Africa, UN Science Policy Business Forum (UN-SPBF) on the Environment, Africa Earth Observation Innovation Challenge and UK-Africa Space Global Africa Alliance.

With a rich academic background that includes an International Master’s in Space Mission Design and Management, Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering (Control Engineering) and is currently undertaking his PhD studies on Earth Observation at Sapienza University of Rome. Charles combines technical expertise with strategic vision and keen interest to support the growth the space sector in Africa. He was recently selected as a Karman Fellow for the year 2025, joining trail blazing space luminaries in the space industry in Africa.

Dr. Charles Konyango

C E C M

Kisumu County

Biography

Urban and Regional Development Planning, Infrastructure & Environmental and Urban Climate Resilience Specialist.
A distinguished Public Sector Manager, Policy analyst and Specialist in Urban and Regional Development Planning and Management having spearheaded the preparation of urban development management plans, regional development spatial plans and lead the preparation of Urban Planning Policy, Monitoring and Oversight guidelines as well as County Spatial Planning Monitoring and Oversight guidelines among others. Ø A career public servant in National Government with over 31 years of experience in strategic management, urban development planning and management project planning and management as well as human resource and capacity development. Ø International public service exposure, Working experience with United Nations Canter for Urban and Regional Development (UNCRD Africa Office) as National Expert. And Programme management specialist and National Coordinator of World Bank project on Kenya Urban Support Programme and National Infrastructure Asset Management Specialist with UNOPS Ø Experience in Capacity development, Monitoring and Evaluation; and Social Safeguards Ø Experience in strategic leadership an human resource development. Ø National Urban Climate Resilience Champion and mobilization for the implementation of the Building of Climate Resilience for the Urban Poor (BCRUP).

Dr. Clifford Okembo

Director

Clifford Geo-Consult

Biography

Dr. Clifford Okembo is currently the director and founder of Clifford Geo-Consult Limited. He works as a senior consultant on GIS, Remote Sensing and Land Administration. He was previously the Chief Executive Officer at Esri Eastern Africa, with more than fifteen years of experience, providing and developing solutions for different Industry sectors based on the ArcGIS platform and other partner solutions. Dr. Okembo holds a PhD degree from the University of Twente, on Land Administration modeling and systems, a MSc GIS degree from Redlands University in California USA and an Undergraduate of B.A Geography from Moi University Kenya. He has experience working in the Eastern Africa region with various organizations on how to modernize operations which bring about efficiency in production and Return on Investment (RoI) using Geospatial technology. He participates in three Technical Standards Committees at the Kenya Bureau of Standards for GIS/Geomatics, Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence & IT Governance, and e-Learning, and takes leadership role technical engagements for both pre- and post-sale. He is also the pioneer and founder of Geospatial Society of Kenya (GeoSK). Clifford values teamwork, collaboration and partnership in all his engagements with people of all ages, gender, tribe and race. He is a critical thinker and treasures informed decision making in his dealings.

Dr Joseph Olwendo

Space Weather Research Scientist

Pwani University

Biography

Dr. Olwendo received his Ph.D. in Space Physics under the supervision of Prof. Paul Baki from Pwani University in 2015. His research was on Equatorial Ionospheric Electrodynamics and Ionospheric effects on GNSS signals. He worked with scientists from South African National Space Agency during the period 2011-2013. From 2015 to 2019, he did his postdoctoral research at ICTP- Italy where he was appointed as a JUNIOR ASSOCIATE SCIENTIST. He worked with NeQuick 2 model research group under Prof. Sandro Radicella. He has published more than 35 papers in the field of space weather and Ionospheric effects on GNSS signals. He has organized a series of Schools and workshops for participants mainly from Africa in the fields of Space Weather and Ionospheric Research that he directs in Kenya or at the ICTP in Italy since 2019. He has given numerous lectures on low latitude ionospheric electrodynamics in his workshops, at invited webinars and in international conferences. He was recognized for his contribution in the understanding of equatorial Ionospheric dynamics and plasma processes and was awarded by the American Geophysical Union Sunanda and Santinay early career award in SUN-EARTH SYSTEM SCIENCE IN 2016. He was a recipient of the Young distinguished scientist award of Union of Radio Science Atlantic in 2015. He was the 2025 recipient of the prestigious American Geophysical Union Africa award in Research and Excellence in Space Sciences. He is the National coordinator of the International Space Weather Initiative in Kenya and a member of the International Reference Ionospheric scientific working group representing Kenya. He is a Science Discipline representative of SCOSTEP since the period 2023. He also serves as an Associate Editor at the Journal of Space Weather and Space Climate and is specifically tasked with low latitude ionosphere and space weather research articles. He is currently the Principal investigator on Ionospheric Scintillation and space environment specification and maintains a Space Weather and Ionospheric Research Laboratory (PUSWIRL) at Pwani University. He aims to establish a vibrant space science research team in Kenya.

Mr. Gitau Mburu

Head of Business operations

Stravion Group FZC

Biography

Stanley Gitau Mburu is a senior business operations and entrepreneurship ecosystem professional with over a decade of experience leading innovation, enterprise development, and technology-driven transformation initiatives across Africa and the GCC. He has worked extensively with startups, investors, development organizations, and ecosystem stakeholders to design and scale entrepreneurship support programs, operational systems, and cross-border growth initiatives.

Gitau previously led Pan-African business support operations at 54 Collective VC, supporting over 633 SMEs across East, West, and Southern Africa, while overseeing programme systems, grant operations, and ecosystem partnerships. He has also driven technology transformation initiatives at Jumba, contributing to ERP modernization, logistics innovation, and digital operations infrastructure.

Currently serving as Head of Business Operations at Stravion Group FZC in the UAE, he supports African businesses entering Gulf markets through strategic partnerships, compliance systems, and market-entry frameworks. A Mandela Washington Fellow and University of Iowa Venture School Fellow, Gitau brings a practical ecosystem perspective on innovation, technology adoption, and sustainable enterprise growth.

At the Global Data Festival and Kenya Space Expo & Conference 2026, he moderates the panel discussion on Strengthening Innovation in the Space Ecosystem.

Ms. Vivianne Meta

Managing Director

LocateIT

Biography

Ms. Vivianne Meta, is the Managing Director at LocateIT Limited, a Space and Geomatics company based in Nairobi, Kenya. She has vast experience in the use and application of Geographic Information Systems, Earth Observation, Surveying and GIT technologies. A Geomatics Engineering graduate, Ms. Meta is involved in managing and coordinating the execution of LocateIT’s geospatial projects including those entailing policy formulation, implementation, development, monitoring & evaluation. She is also involved in business development and as the project manager, plays an instrumental role in the implementation of flagship projects developed, conceptualised and implemented by LocateIT. In 2023, she was appointed to serve in the inaugural Geospatial Insights Advisory Board of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) whose mandate is to shape and guide the foundation’s strategy in the adoption of Geospatial technology in its global programs in Health and Agriculture.

She also serves as the national representative (PoC) for Kenya for the African Aeronautics and Space Organisation (AASO). Ms. Meta was in 2019 listed among the Top 10 under 30 Space professionals in Africa disrupting the space ecosystem while creating a global impact. Beyond just being a professional in the industry, Vivianne is extremely passionate about Geospatial and space science and attributes her motivation to the satisfaction gained from seeing communities in Africa getting transformed through the work she does, most importantly, the application of geo technologies for sustainable development initiatives. She is passionate about mentorship for youth and women, and would do just about anything to steer this space revolution globally and influence the next the generation of space scientists, enthusiasts and geo-savvy community.

Mr David Adieno

COO

iamtheCODE

Biography

Davis Adieno is a senior global leader in data for development, AI Strategies and governance, digital innovation and strategic partnerships. He currently serves as Chief Operating Officer at iamtheCODE, a global movement committed to enabling one million young women and girls coders by 2030 through STEAMD, AI literacy, digital skills and access to over 67,000 free certified courses.

Prior to joining iamtheCODE, Davis spent over eight years at the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development Data, where he helped expand country engagement, build cross-regional multi-stakeholder partnerships, and support governments to strengthen data systems for sustainable development. His work has spanned Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, covering inclusive data, data for COVID-19, capacity development, AI policy, digital transformation, Citizen-Generated Data and initiatives such as the Africa Regional Data Cube, which supported African countries to use earth observation data for policy and development decision-making. In Kenya, Davis led the team that supported the development of the National AI strategy, contributed to conversations on data governance, capacity and innovation, including support to Kenya’s emerging AI ecosystem.

Mr. George Kinuthia

education Policy and Curriculum Development Specialist

KICD

Biography

Mr. George Kinuthia is a passionate education policy and curriculum development specialist with extensive expertise in designing inclusive education programs, coordinating multi-stakeholder initiatives, and aligning curriculum reforms with national policies. He specializes in competency-based curriculum (CBC) development, ensuring that assessment frameworks effectively enhance learning outcomes while advocating for the inclusion of marginalized learners within the national education system.

Mr. Kinuthia is actively involved in policy advocacy and stakeholder engagement, collaborating with key education stakeholders and development partners to implement impactful and sustainable educational programs. Additionally, he leads monitoring, evaluation, and reporting processes, leveraging data-driven decision-making to assess policy impact and improve program effectiveness.

Committed to advancing equity, innovation, and sustainable education solutions, Mr. Kinuthia contributes significantly to research, education policy discussions, and program implementation initiatives to improve access to quality education and overall learning outcomes.

Mr. Davis Adieno

Chief Operating Officer

iamtheCODE

Biography

Dr. Daniel Okoh

space physicist

N A S D R A

Biography

Dr. Daniel Okoh is a space physicist and AI researcher specializing in ionospheric modelling and space weather forecasting. He is presently working on the Development in Africa with Radio Astronomy (DARA) project at the Technical University of Kenya, where he applies machine learning and artificial intelligence techniques to space weather prediction and ionospheric modelling. He leads the development of the African regional ionospheric Total Electron Content model (AfriTEC) and its expanded global 3D electron density model (NN3D), which utilize GNSS and radio occultation data for advanced ionospheric and atmospheric studies. Dr. Okoh earned a PhD in Astrophysics with a specialization in observational radio astronomy and is affiliated with the Space Environment Research Laboratory at the National Space Research and Development Agency, Abuja. His research interests include ionospheric irregularities, atmospheric/ionospheric modelling, and AI-driven space science applications. In recognition of his contributions to African space science, he received the American Geophysical Union Africa Award for Research Excellence in Space Science in 2024.

Mr. Bendon Murgor

Co-founder

Adanian Labs

Biography

Bendon Murgor is a seasoned technology executive with over 18 years of experience across systems architecture, software engineering, network administration and IT project management. As the current Chief Technology Officer at Adanian Labs and AICE Africa, he spearheads technology strategy and product innovation across all systems. As the Co-Founder & CTO, he drives technical design, DevOps standards, cybersecurity measures, and quality assurance for multiple high-impact projects. He combines deep technical knowledge with cross-functional team leadership, data privacy, and AI strategy, making him a key voice on how emerging technologies and data ecosystems can drive transformation across Africa’s public and private sectors.Bendon Murgor is a seasoned technology executive with over 18 years of experience across systems architecture, software engineering, network administration and IT project management. As the current Chief Technology Officer at Adanian Labs and AICE Africa, he spearheads technology strategy and product innovation across all systems. As the Co-Founder & CTO, he drives technical design, DevOps standards, cybersecurity measures, and quality assurance for multiple high-impact projects. He combines deep technical knowledge with cross-functional team leadership, data privacy, and AI strategy, making him a key voice on how emerging technologies and data ecosystems can drive transformation across Africa’s public and private sectors.

Ms. Susan Gatura

CEO

Phoenix KE Analytics

Biography

Susan Gatura is the Founder & CEO of Phoenix KE Analytics — Africa's boutique data & AI consultancy and talent ecosystem — and one of Africa's most distinctive voices at the intersection of data, AI, and what it actually takes to build in emerging markets.
She came into data without a mentor, without a roadmap, and without anyone who looked like her showing her it was possible. That experience built Phoenix KE — a community of 15,000+ data & AI professionals, 200+ trained mentees, 90+ mentors, and 14+ corporate partners — and a consultancy that delivers data governance, BI architecture, AI automation, and executive data literacy to organisations across Kenya and the continent.
Over 10 years across M-KOPA, Copia, Jumia, and MultiChoice spanning 15 countries, Susan has helped organisations understand the businesses better with the data that is right in front of them. She is an MBA in Finance who builds machine learning models — which means she understands the P&L implication of every data insight, not just the technical one.
She has been recognised as a Top 40 Under 40 Woman in Kenya, shortlisted as a DataIQ Data Champion, named a fi nalist for the WomenTech Global Community Award, and included in the 50 Inspiring Women in Tech in Africa 2023.
Susan speaks on data strategy, AI readiness in African markets, data governance and policy, closing the representation gap in tech, and what it takes to build a data culture from the ground up — not from a boardroom in Silicon Valley, but from Nairobi.

Mr. Charles Mwangi

Technical Director

K S A

Biography

Charles Mwangi is a distinguished leader and technical expert with extensive experience in Space Technology, Earth Observation, and policy development. Currently serving as the Acting Technical Director at the Kenya Space Agency. His work has focused on supporting the development of space-related systems and leveraging space-derived data for societal benefits and decision/policy support.
Notably, Mwangi has represented Kenya in global forums like the Group on Earth Observations (GEO) and the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS). Charles currently serves as member of the multiple advisory committees including Digital Earth Africa, UN Science Policy Business Forum (UN-SPBF) on the Environment, Africa Earth Observation Innovation Challenge and UK-Africa Space Global Africa Alliance.
With a rich academic background that includes an International Master’s in Space Mission Design and Management, Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering (Control Engineering) and is currently undertaking his PhD studies on Earth Observation at Sapienza University of Rome. Charles combines technical expertise with strategic vision and keen interest to support the growth the space sector in Africa. He was recently selected as a Karman Fellow for the year 2025, joining trail blazing space luminaries in the space industry in Africa.

Meet Our Speakers

Hon. Prof. Kithure Kindiki, E.G.H.

Hon. Soipan Tuya EGH

Prof. Abdulrazak Shaukat

Dr. Patrick Mariru

Eng. John Tanui

Maj Gen Bernard Waliaula

Dr. Macdonald Obudho

Brig. Hillary Kipkosgey

Ms. Jenna Slotin

Panelists & Speakers

Panelists & Speakers

Dr Caroline Gavaert

Mr. Andre Parris

Mr. Mirado Rafenomahenintso

Mr. Evans Kegode

Mr. Kamel Houairi

Mr. Andre Nonguierma

Dr. Rendani Ndaganeni

Ms. Florence Syevuo

Mr Jacques Matara

Col. Andrew Nyawade

Mr. Steven Santovasi

Dr. Munzer Jahjah

Mr. Raphael Kimani

Ms. Emily Kimathi

Prof. Jared Ndeda

Ms. Caroline Akoth

Ms. Enjy Salah

Mr. Charles Murito

Mr. Sammy Matara

Dr. Dana R. Thomson

Rayya El Zein

Mr. Martin Turuta

Dr. Girmaw Abebe

Ms. Leonida Mutuku

H.E. Dr. Wilber K. Ottichilo E.G.H

Mr. Fabrizio Scrollini

Dr. Garry Conille

Ms. Chepkemoi Magdaline

Mr. Marius Cronje

Ms. Charlynne Jepkosgei

Mr Paul Murage

Mr. Daniel Njuguna

Dr. Pamela Mulaku

Dr. Kiringai Kamau

Ms. Rachel Niyomufasha

Zeddy Misiga

Lea Gimpel

Ms. Rosemary Kuria

Ms. Rosemary Gatahi

Ms. Faith Masibo

Ms. Josephine Kaaniru

Mr. Levi Orero

Mr. Derrick Demeveng

Mr. George Sie Williams

Mr. Guillame Bigel

Ms. Njiki Djemi

Mr. Ben Paul Mungyereza

Irving Gibran Zamora

Ms. Ana Aguilera

Dr. Mwangi Kinyanjui

Colonel (Rtd). David K. Samoei

Ms. Kamau Gloria Wambui

Ms. Sabrina Juran

Sheru Muuo

Mr. Yankho Likakhu

Tatenda Songore

Yazid Salahudeen Mikail

Josephine Appiah-Nyamekye Sanny

Paz Patiño

Ms. Sian Rasdale

Mr. Ian Coady

Ms. Carlos Alberto Durán Gil

Dr. Tony Omwansa

Ms. Janet McLaren

Saba Tiku

Zafeer Ravat

Risper Onyango

Al Kags

Dr. Girmaw Abebe