General News
Choosing the right mix of tools for your business to sidestep silos

By Andrew Bourne, Regional Manager, Africa, Zoho Corporation
Technology silos are one of the most common barriers that organisations come across in their digital transformation journeys. Tech silos mainly crop up at a juncture when various departments within the organisation use disparate software applications that not only differ in form, look, and feel but also struggle to integrate contextually. When business-critical apps do not communicate with each other seamlessly, organisations are left battling information silos, disjointed processes, and half-baked analytics.
Investing in digital tools built on the same technology stack
Business owners and tech leaders who are intent on avoiding silos in their firm’s digital transformation journey should consider a holistic view and try appraising their software choices in the following aspects as an add-on measure:
- Beyond satisfying an exclusive departmental need, does the chosen software have the necessary integration capabilities to work with other tools and systems to create an inter-connected business tech ecosystem?
- Will the software contribute towards the three Cs—convergence, collaboration, and context, which are imperative for frictionless business processes?
An effective solution to the above is to move away from point solutions and consciously invest in a set of business solutions that are built on the same technology stack such as unified platforms, common data models, and consistent interfaces. This allows functionally distinct modules, like CRM, marketing, and finance to converge at an architectural level, facilitating powerful integrations, customizations, and capability extensions. Let’s look at a few scenarios below that portray the benefits of contextual integration.
When a CRM and a finance tool work together, a customer support executive is able to, say, access a client’s invoice history and pending product licenses directly from the CRM or Help Desk console without having to log into a secondary tool, thereby saving time. Next, an inter-connected collaboration platform that blends internal and external communications in one place, like a contextual messaging portal within the CRM tool, will allow executives to discuss a certain ticket before responding to the customer. The creative possibilities of such cross-functional integration are endless and so are the benefits, irrespective of industry type and organisation size.
Integrated solutions with a unified data repository also ensure high success rates and quality outcomes while employing modern technologies like AI, ML, and business intelligence. Uniform data sets power unified business analytics, resulting in meaningful inferences and actionable insights that help organisations future-proof their business decisions.
Additionally, the integration capabilities should also allow organizations to build custom workflows or connectors on their own with as little coding as possible to explore new value avenues in growth scaling, supply chain management, customer experience and so on.
The UX angle
This is another important angle for organisations to keep in mind during their business software decisions: the employee experience (EX) approach. Employees should be given tools that are simple to work with and offer consistent experiences across departments. The tools should also make their jobs easier, with process integration and automation and allowing for quicker cross-functional collaboration. When the tools tick all of the above, employees are much more likely to embrace the change that comes with digitalisation.
A great EX also contributes to a greater customer experience (CX). Tools that streamline communications and elevate EX allow organisations to exist as a single cohesive unit and ensure that their customers get a consistent experience. At the end of the day, a stellar customer experience is what gives an organisation the winning edge over competitors. In this digital age, an intelligent mix of business tools plays a defining role in achieving that competitive advantage.
Leveraging the power of integration for digital maturity
When it comes to business technology, invariable connectivity is vital because every organisation thrives by working as one unit. So, CTOs and business process architects should bear in mind the importance of a collaborative approach while going digital and that ‘integration rather than siloed is essential’.
For a digital transformation strategy to act as a true business enabler, it’s pivotal to choose the right set of tools that will work in harmony towards the same goal and mission, thereby reducing management complexity, simplifying the user environment, and increasing customer delight.
General News
Evans Woherem’s Book, “Building A New Africa” Charts Bold Vision For Africa’s Future

Dr. Evans Woherem, a renowned scholar and thought leader, has unveiled his latest book, “Building a New Africa,” urging Africans worldwide to rethink the continent’s future and unite in shaping a new chapter of progress, self-reliance, and shared prosperity.
A timely and thought-provoking publication that offers more than just a history lesson; Building a New Africa not only presents a roadmap for reclaiming Africa’s greatness and unlocking its vast potential, but explores the continent’s rich past, its present challenges, and a bold, actionable vision for transformation.
“This book doesn’t just touch on the past of Africa,” Woherem declares, “but it makes us understand Africa’s potential and offers a vision for a future where Africa can thrive and stand proudly alongside the rest of the world.”
In Building a New Africa, Dr. Woherem draws from history to remind readers of the continent’s glorious civilizations—Egypt, Kush, Mali, Songhai, Oyo, Benin, and Great Zimbabwe, among others—emphasizing Africa’s foundational role in the story of humanity.
He then examines how centuries of slavery and colonialism disrupted this trajectory, leaving long-lasting impacts on political, economic, and social systems.
Despite gaining independence, the book notes that many African nations remain trapped in neo-colonial systems, burdened by political instability, economic stagnation, and underdevelopment. “The question we need to ask ourselves is: Where did the rain start beating us? How did Africa lose its greatness?” Woherem asks.
But Building a New Africa is far from a lament. It is a clarion call for solutions, providing concrete ideas and practical pathways forward. Central to the book’s thesis is the urgent need for visionary leadership, the kind that can unite people, inspire change, and drive inclusive growth.
It also advocates for a political and economic framework rooted in industrialization, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development. The book outlines strategies for mobilizing resources, building institutions, and investing in sectors that can generate jobs and wealth.
One of the most compelling ideas presented is the proposal of a Pan-African model of development—a cooperative, borderless approach that leverages the collective strength of African nations. This model, according to the author, is essential to overcoming shared challenges and building resilience.
Dr. Woherem pushes readers to look ahead and ask: What will Africa look like in 50 years if bold steps are taken today? “This book isn’t just for academics, policymakers, or experts. It’s for all of us—Africans, and anyone who believes in Africa’s potential,” he writes.
Building a New Africa is more than a book—it’s a rallying cry. It invites students, professionals, entrepreneurs, and everyday citizens to join in the conversation and be part of the change. In an era where the narrative about Africa is often marked by pessimism, Dr. Woherem offers a hopeful and empowering alternative.
As the continent stands at a crossroads, Building a New Africa urges all who care about its future to begin imagining, planning, and acting, today.
The public is warmly invited to get a copy of Building a New Africa and engage in this vital conversation. The journey to a renewed, empowered, and united Africa begins with informed minds and inspired hearts.
Dr Evans Woherem, the author of the book, is an award-winning African Technology researcher, analyst, and writer.
He has authored or co-authored three books and numerous academic papers on various areas, including Artificial Intelligence, Expert Systems, Software Engineering, project management, IT Strategy Planning and Technology in Banking. He worked for Lloyd’s Register (UK) and ABSA bank (RSA) at technical and management levels.
He was a highly successful Executive Director of Information Technology at both First Bank of Nigeria and Unity Bank Plc (Nigeria). He was the pioneer Chairman of Interswitch Nigeria Ltd, which is today a Unicorn. He was also the Chairman of Chams Access Ltd.
He is currently the Chairman of Digital Africa, Compumetrics Solutions Ltd and Northlink Insurance Brokers Ltd. He holds a PhD on Impact of Expert Systems. He is a Fellow of the Nigerian Computer Society, and an alumnus of Harvard Business School.
General News
OneData Revolutionizes Caleb University Campus Connectivity, Empowering Students for the Digital Age

OneData, a trusted provider of fibre-based broadband internet services in Nigeria, has partnered with Caleb University to revolutionize campus connectivity and equip students with the digital skills required to thrive in a technology-driven world.
This strategic collaboration aligns with Caleb University’s vision of becoming the Centre of Technology, Media and Telecommunications (TMT) Excellence, bridging the gap between education and digital innovation.
Transforming Campus Connectivity
Under this partnership, OneData has deployed high-speed, campus-wide fibre internet, ensuring uninterrupted access to online learning platforms, research databases, and communication tools. This is set to modernize the university’s digital infrastructure, creating an environment where students and faculty members can excel in an ICT-driven world.
Fostering Digital Excellence
Beyond providing internet services, OneData is launching “Digital and Entrepreneurial Hubs”, dedicated spaces designed to cultivate innovation, digital literacy, and business acumen. These hubs will serve as incubators where students can develop technological solutions, explore business opportunities, and gain industry-ready skills.
“Reliable internet is not just an educational tool; it is the foundation of a thriving digital economy,” said Mr Olawale Owoeye, CEO of OneData. “By collaborating with Caleb University, we have not only provided for campus connectivity but are also empowering students with the training, resources, and opportunities needed to lead in technology, media, and telecommunications. This is a game-changer for higher education in Nigeria.”
Echoing this sentiment, Professor Nosa Owens-Ibie, Vice Chancellor of Caleb University, stated, “This partnership with OneData is a significant step toward our mission of becoming a center of excellence in education and innovation. By integrating world-class internet services and fostering entrepreneurial hubs, we are equipping students with the skills and opportunities to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s digital transformation.”
Expanding Digital Access
OneData’s vision extends beyond Caleb University. The company is committed to scaling this model in universities nationwide, ensuring more students gain access to high-speed internet, education, and entrepreneurial resources. This initiative is not just about internet access; it is about empowering the next generation to drive Nigeria’s digital transformation
General News
Mart Networks Brings Comprehensive Cybersecurity Solutions from Infopercept to Africa

Mart Networks Group, a leading value-added distributor with a presence in the Middle East and Africa, has announced a distribution partnership with Infopercept, a leading platform-led managed security services company.
Under this agreement, Mart Networks will serve as a distributor in East and West Africa for Invinsense Offensive Extended Detection and Response (OXDR), a platform for threat exposure management, and Invinsense Govern Secure Optimize and Strengthen (GSOS), a platform for security compliance management.
Invinsense OXDR is a comprehensive threat exposure management suite that integrates Attack Surface Management (ASM), Vulnerability Management (VM), Breach and Attack Simulation (BAS), Continuous Automated Red Teaming (CART), and RedOps. It enables organizations to discover, prioritize, validate, and remediate their security exposures. These exposures extend beyond vulnerabilities to include misconfigured assets, security control weaknesses, counterfeit assets, and poor responses to phishing simulations.
Invinsense GSOS, a compliance platform, is meticulously designed to streamline the process of achieving various security compliance standards while optimizing efficiency. Comprising seven modules, it enables organizations to develop robust cybersecurity strategies, simplify compliance management, strengthen security protocols, mitigate risks, enhance cybersecurity awareness and readiness, and ensure regulatory adherence for protecting sensitive data.
“The increasing sophistication and volume of cyberattacks in Africa demand a comprehensive cybersecurity approach,” said Moiz Maloo, CEO of Mart Networks Group. “Africa must now go beyond preventive security and detection and response by incorporating proactive strategies like Threat Exposure Management.
“Security compliance is another challenge for African organizations, and they need a platform-driven approach to achieve compliance holistically.”
Speaking on the partnership with Infopercept, Mr. Maloo added, “Mart Networks is focused on two key areas: cybersecurity and delivering tomorrow’s technology today. With decades of experience in value-added distribution for cybersecurity, we have already created significant value for our customers and partners in preventive security, detection, and response. Africa is a prime target for sophisticated cyberattacks, leading to increasingly stringent security compliance requirements.
“We recognized gaps in our cybersecurity offerings and sought to address them. Infopercept’s Invinsense platform fills these gaps by providing both threat exposure management and security compliance solutions, along with managed services. This collaboration will help us protect African organizations from breaches and security exposures.”
Expressing enthusiasm about the partnership, Jaydeep Ruparelia, CEO of Infopercept, said, “Since our inception, Infopercept has been committed to cybersecurity. For our expansion into Africa, we sought a distribution partner equally passionate about the field, and we found that in Mart Networks.
“Africa presents a unique landscape with a diverse range of organizations. On one end, there are cloud-native companies, while on the other, some organizations prefer to remain entirely on-premise, with many adopting a hybrid model. With Invinsense, we have built a scalable platform that caters to the cybersecurity and compliance needs of all these organizations.
“Our platform-led managed security services model also addresses the significant cybersecurity skills gap, which is a global challenge. With Mart Networks as our partner, we are confident in delivering two critical cybersecurity outcomes for organizations in the region: defending against sophisticated cyberattacks and ensuring security compliance.”
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