Nominations Open For Most Influential Women In Tech Africa 2026
Nominations for the Most Influential Women In Tech Africa (MIWIT) 2026 are now open, recognizing women who are advancing the technology sector across the continent. CIO Africa by dx5 is encouraging nominations for women who may be prominent figures in the community as well as those achieving impactful work behind the scenes.
Overview of MIWIT
Initially launched as an East African initiative, MIWIT has evolved into a pan-African recognition program. The previous year’s list featured 45 influential women from several countries, including Rwanda, Uganda, Nigeria, Benin, Namibia, and South Africa. Notable entries included Rwanda’s ICT Minister Paula Ingabire for her contributions to establishing the country as an AI hub, and Ada Nduka Oyom, founder of She Code Africa. Dr. Aminah Zawedde, the ICT Permanent Secretary in Uganda, was also recognized, alongside the youngest nominee, Dr. Viviane Oke, a 23-year-old digital health entrepreneur from Benin.
As 2026 unfolds, the landscape of technology in Africa is rapidly shifting. Artificial Intelligence has moved beyond pilot phases into operational use, prompting governments to establish new regulations. Corporate boards are increasingly scrutinizing their technology expenditures, ensuring that investments yield tangible results. Despite women constituting a minority in Africa’s tech workforce, their essential contributions are crucial to this evolution. MIWIT aims to highlight and celebrate these achievements.
Nomination Criteria
Nominees for MIWIT 2026 should meet specific criteria, which include holding a leadership position that influences organizational direction, demonstrating a strong digital presence, driving innovation within the tech community, serving as a role model, and contributing to the region’s digital transformation. The eligibility period for recognition is from September 2025 to September 2026, covering significant achievements such as promotions, awards, or successful project launches.
Submission Process
Individuals interested in nominating candidates can do so by submitting a nomination form, detailing the nominee’s qualifications and contributions to the tech sector. The application requires specific examples of achievements and their impact, emphasizing quantitative data and links to related projects where possible.
Nominations will be accepted until October 12, 2026, and can be submitted via the designated nomination portal.
Why It Matters
Recognizing influential women in technology serves to inspire future generations of leaders and innovators in Africa. By showcasing the accomplishments of diverse women across the continent, MIWIT highlights the vital roles they play in shaping the tech industry and encourages collective progress in a sector that continues to evolve rapidly.
