6 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF BEFORE BUYING NEW TECHNOLOGY FOR YOUR BUSINESS Deciding which new technology to buy for one’s business is always a daunting task. Especially when you do not have much technical expertise with the many different technologies out there. These technologies can range from different types of software or hardware. The influx of technologies requires a buyer to seek the answers to certain salient questions prior to purchasing. Hence whatever decision that is made must be well informed. Business owners must seek the answers to the seven (7) questions below before investing in any new technology for their business: 1. Which parts of your business need the technology? Ask yourself; which part(s) of my business really need(s) the technology in order for the company to work better? Knowing the exact part(s) of the business which needs the technology will prevent you from wasting money. This might be the case if in your business there are some processes which are done manually such that you spend much of your time doing these tasks, for example; report writing, stock taking, business trend analysis and the like. In this case to reduce the amount of time to complete a task, you might consider purchasing soft wares that are automated and speed up these business processes hence, saving you time and money. Also note that if a technology you desire to purchase would be rarely used in your business, then avoid purchasing it since there wouldn’t be any or little returns on investments. 2. How does it work? Knowing how to operate the technology you desire to purchase is extremely important. Understanding the functionalities of the technology and the benefits it brings to your business processes is paramount to your purchasing decision. You will need to ask yourself; ‘is the technology easy to learn? Do I and my staff need a special training on the technology prior it purchase? You will need to factor the cost component on any training and under cost that comes with understanding and knowing how to operate it before making a decision to purchase. 3. What are the indirect costs of this technology? Usually, when buying new technology, one is tempted to only consider the capital cost of the technology and little attention is given to the total costs of ownership during the life time of the technology. These indirect costs may include; maintenance costs, additional support for the technology. You might relate to this situation where you are purchasing a software system for your business and the software vendor is the only one who knows the technicalities of the software. The vendor becomes the sole repository of the maintenance know-how of the technology and takes advantage to charge throat cutting prices. Certainly this would be very costly and might adversely affect your bottom-line. Even though this is a crucial question to ask, getting the accurate feedback to make an informed decision on purchasing the new technology often becomes stressful. Vendors of the said technology rarely provide all the needed information to the question. A good number of people purchasing the technology would only discover these costs after the actual purchase. Try to do more of online research on the technology. The internet has made it possible to solicit a lot of information on any product or service. Also, speak to an array of IT professionals who might readily provide the needed information. 4. How often will the technology change? It is believed that technology changes every six months. Prior to purchasing any new technology, ask yourself; ‘How soon will this technology become obsolete? How soon will there be an upgrade? Is the version I am purchasing the latest? For instance, users of Microsoft would clearly see that their soft wares keeps on evolving. It was then Windows XP and its now Windows 10 These technological changes makes it very difficult to take a decision on purchasing technologies. More so, the questions of whether to buy a completely new one or to upgrade the existing one often becomes a dilemma. Mostly, the right decision to make will depend on the type of technology you desire. 5. How will the new technology make or save money for your business? Any new technology that is decided on should always be in sync with your business strategies. The new technology adopted must align with the business strategies of your firm to ensure high revenue and profit generation. Always analyze the new technology to understand how it enhances your business strategies. If the two do not sync, you will be wasting your time and money purchasing a technology that wouldn’t benefit your business operations. However if a technology investment will improve the efficiency of operations then it is worth it. 6. How long is the payback period? The duration for returns on investments is very critical. It is important to clearly consider the length of time required to recover the cost of technological investment. They payback period of any investment is a very important determinant of whether purchase a new technology. Often technologies with longer payback periods are typically not desirable but they are often worth it. Brief Profile of Writer" Bridget Nyirongo, Malawi. Bridget Nyirongo is a young Malawian female Computer Scientist (Software Developer) passionate about using her technical expertise to see and realise a high representation of females in the male dominated field of Information and Communication Technology(ICT) in Africa. Since 2012, she has been working as the Assistant Systems Engineer (software development) for the University of Malawi, Chancellor College ICT Centre . She has technical expertise in Computer Programming (Ruby on Rails, PHP, HTML,JavaScript, HAML), Software refactoring, Plugin development for ECLIPSE IDE, database administration (MySQL, SQL), and Networking (LAN, WAN). During her free time she likes baking, reading inspirational articles or books and swimming. REFERENCE 1. www.businesszone.co.uk/do/people/five-questions-to-ask-before-buying-new-tech 2. http://katecarruthers.com/2010/02/7-questions-business-technology 3. www.investopedia.com/terms/p/paybackperiod.asp

WOMEN IN TECH AFRICA (WiTA) 2017 CALL FOR APPLICATIONS – GLOBAL CHAMPIONS   Women in Tech Africa (WiTA), the largest technology based women group in Africa, is seeking applications from passionate, creative women and men who believe in the course of pushing Africa’s growth agenda through technology and entrepreneurship to be part of its Global Champion Programme.   Women in Tech Africa (WITA) has the sole mission of supporting female leadership and creating a pipeline for girls to choose technology. It believes that, though the technological field is currently male dominated, there is a great opportunity for many women and girls to thrive in this same field. This programme is an opportunity for you to apply your skills and gifts to make a difference in the general developmental growth of Africa with special focus on technological development and entrepreneurship. Women in Tech Africa (WiTA) believes that everyone has a role to play in realizing the developmental growth of Africa starting from our communities with our unique set of skills and gifts. All you need is internet and your willingness to be part of the Global Champion Programme.  Apply now to become a WiTA Global Champion.   WHO IS ELIGIBLE? Individuals (women, girls, men and boys) from different professional backgrounds and skill sets qualify to partake. Applicants below eighteen (18) years are encouraged to apply but will need to provide a parental/ guardian approval and consent in a formal letter.   WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

1. Certification/ testimonial for being a WiTA Global Champion.
2. Work closely with the team at Women in Tech Africa (WiTA) head office (Ghana) on projects.
3. Recognition and visibility on all WiTA platforms.
4. Publication of all write ups by Global Champions to over 500,000 audience from more than thirty (30) countries.

5. Network with over 20,000 members and experts.
6. Get potential hires with our numerous corporate sponsors.
7. Business opportunities or partnerships with our numerous partners and business professionals.
8. Acquire new knowledge and learn skills

  WHAT IS THE WORK OF A CHAMPION? As Champions you will use your expertise, skills, and knowledge to promote Women in Tech Africa’s agenda and projects online and offline. Champions will be grouped into 3 Categories Social Media 1)Social Media English-2 spots 2)Social Media French-2 spots (create content calendar and promote events and women in tech across Africa, must have social media experience- 2 yrs) Operations 3)Operations offline :Helping Country lead with events in country(set up, event promotion , picture taking) 4)Operations Online: Helping manage/set up online webinar   Blog Content Creators 5)Blog Contributor –English 2 spots 6)Blog Contributor –French 2 spots 7)Blog Editor - 2 spots( French 1 - English 1) (writing a bi weekly column for the website, must be a able to share links to work they have written in the past)   WHAT IS THE REQUIRED TIME COMMITMENT? Global Champions are expected to make available at most an hour a day to fulfill their commitments.

1. In the case of special projects, Global Champions would be required for more than an hour based on the nature of the project(s).

  WILL CHAMPIONS BE PAID/FUNDED? As a Global Champion for WiTA, your involvement would be voluntary. No funds will be available to cover the costs of your participation.   APPRAISAL OF GLOBAL CHAMPIONS Champions would be appraised every quarter and given feedback. Based on the annual performance of a Global Champion, the board of WiTA would decide whether to continue with a champion or not. Apply now to become a WiTA Global Champion.   APPLICATION DEADLINE:  Application must be submitted by 3oth January 2017 at 5:00 pm GMT.   ANNOUNCEMENT OF SHORTLISTED APPLICANTS  Names of short listed applicants would informed by email on 9th February 2017     INTERVIEWS Interviews and Rally Period would start from   February 9th to February 15th The focus of the interview is for applicants to demonstrate how dynamic, creative and passionate they are in using their skill set to promote the course of Women in Tech Africa (WiTA) The Rally Period is when candidates will demonstrate their abilities through with  creating a social media campaign around #womenintechafrica and executing or creating 2-3 articles  for posting on the women in tech Africa site  or  running an independently organizes Women in Tech Africa Event or  creating video content online that helps promote women in tech Africa    PUBLICATION OF SELECTED GLOBAL CHAMPIONS The names and pictures of successful applicants would be published on the WiTA website on 30th Feb   TRAINING Applicants who qualify would be given a one week training to familiarize themselves with WiTA activities, code of ethics/conduct of Global Champions and responsibilities of Champions.

  20^th November 2016   “ Tech Innovation lab for women launches in Ghana”     The African Women Innovators Network :An initiative of the UK-based Africa Technology Business Network (ATBN) in partnership with Women in Tech Africa– the first Business Innovation Lab will take place in Ghana from January to March 2017. It will see 30 women innovators undergo a two-day innovation bootcamp giving them the tools and opportunity to work together to develop their business ideas. This will be followed by a six-week mentorship period where selected participants will have a unique opportunity to work with other founders and tech enthusiasts across the world, building a global network of valuable contacts in the process.   Finally the programme will culminate in a Demo Day on 8th March where finalists will have an opportunity to pitch their innovative ideas for a chance to win seed funding and three months of dedicated support to help them launch their business. Speaking on the initiative, Eunice Baguma Ball founder ATBN said “Technology startups in Africa are a rapidly growing sector, with an emerging innovation-driven ecosystem that is serving a growing consumer base and helping to create local solutions to social challenges. The Business Innovation Lab will put women at the forefront of contributing to innovation on the continent and empower them to building a better future not only for themselves but also for other women and girls in Africa”. Ethel Cofie founder Women in Tech Africa added “Supporting women entrepreneurs is imperative for economic growth in Africa. We are therefore delighted to be part of this collaboration dedicated to supporting female entrepreneurs to succeed across Africa” Applications are now open for the Business Innovation Lab Ghana! Apply here: http://www.awinafrica.org Notes to Editors:   About the African Women Innovators Network The African Women Innovators network is an initiative of the Africa Technology Business Network working in partnership with Ghana-based Women in Tech Africa and is funded by Comic Relief and DFID under the Common Ground Initiative fund.   About Africa Technology Business Network The Africa Technology Business Network (ATBN) is a social enterprise working to support technology and entrepreneurship as tools for addressing key challenges in Africa. We work with entrepreneurs, organisations and investors to accelerate innovative solutions that unlock new market opportunities and help to drive sustainable development in Africa. Visit www.africatbn.com to learn more.   About Women in Tech Africa: Women in Tech Africa is a pan-African network of women in over 30 countries that is dedicated to supporting African women to leverage technology to positively impact their communities. Visit www.womenintechafrica.com to learn more.    

Supporting Women in Tech Across Africa(WITA) to Positively to Impact their Communities Positively WITA believes that women are equally capable of being at the forefront of technological development and advancement in Africa and the world at large Women in Tech Africa mission is 3 fold

• Promoting the capabilities of an African woman achiever ( career/entrepreneurship)
• Raising today’s female leaders and role models for the next generation
• Ensure African growth through technology by bridging the digital divide

Women in Tech Africa is the largest group on the continent with membership across 30 countries globally with 12 Physical chapter in Ghana, Nigeria, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Somalia, Germany, Ireland, Britain, Kenya, Tanzania, Mauritius, and Cape Verde Women in Tech Africa is also the 2018 recipient if the United Nations Equals Award for Leadership in the Women and Technology Space

    Press Release   London, UK, September 8th, 2016   Africa Tech Summit London announces Erik Hersman as keynote speaker for 2016   Today, Africa Tech Summit London has announced its keynote address and speaker line up for the event bringing together technology leaders from across Africa and Europe, international investors, entrepreneurs and leading African start-ups.   This year’s visionary keynote address will be given by Erik Hersman, leading entrepreneur and technologist focused on advancing the use of technology in Africa.   “We are delighted and honoured to announce Erik Hersman as our keynote for his unparalleled vision, passion, and contribution to the African tech ecosystem” says Andrew Fassnidge, co-organiser of Africa Tech Summit London.   Erik is the CEO of BRCK, a rugged wireless WiFi device designed and engineered in Kenya for use throughout the emerging markets. In 2010 he founded the iHub, Nairobi’s innovation hub for the technology community, bringing together entrepreneurs, hackers, designers and the investment community.   He is also a co-founder of Ushahidi, the free and open source software for crowdsourcing crisis information, and also established afrigadget.com and whiteafrican.com and is general partner in the Savannah Fund.   “Erik has been the driving force behind so many key initiatives that have put African technology on the global stage, encouraging inward investment and inspiring an ecosystem of start-ups and techies who are now building Africa’s future through technology. His passion and optimism for Africa are exactly what the Africa Tech Summit London is all about.”   This exclusive apply to attend Summit organised by Appsafrica.com, South Africa DTI and AllAmber is supported by Linklaters LLP, LeapFrog Investments, Mobi Hunter and Analyse Africa. The event will be hosted by the South African Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) at the SA High Commission in London.   “The DTI is committed to promoting innovation and development across the continent of Africa, not in South Africa alone,” says Thobile Mazibuko, DTI Economic Counsellor at the South African High Commission.   “We look forward to welcoming those who wish to see Africa realise its considerable potential in the tech space”.   The event will host 20+ expert speakers including Vodafone Group, Atlas Mara, Opera Software, Nest.VC, VC4Africa, ABAN, Singularity Investments, Worldreader, Bitpesa, The Bandwidth Barn, SimbaPay, Big Cabal Media, Balancing Act, What3words, WeFarm, HotelOga, Fintech Circle Innovate and other leading ventures providing attendees with the latest insight on mobile innovation, fintech and investment opportunities across the continent.  

• Ends –

    About Appsafrica.com   AppsAfrica.com is a leading pan-African technology news portal and advisory service, dedicated to delivering the latest insight on mobile, tech and innovation in Africa. AppsAfrica Advisory provides strategic, tactical and operational Africa advisory services for mobile and tech ventures planning to launch or expand in Sub-Saharan Africa with a team of experienced advisors.   About the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) The South African Department of Trade and Industry based at the SA High Commission in London oversees the bilateral trade and investment relationship between the UK and South Africa. The DTI actively promotes FDI into priority sectors of the South African economy, and seeks to provide access for South African exports to the UK.   FOR MORE INFORMATION: Andrew Fassnidge Appsafrica.com / Africatechsummit.com Email: andrew@appsafrica.com www.appsafrica.com / www.africatechsummit.com   Lyndsey Duff DTI Inward Investment, South African High Commission UK Email: lyndsey@sadti.co.uk www.thedti.gov.za    

                 

    The Appsafrica.com Innovation Awards celebrate the best in mobile and tech from across Africa, and entries are now open to find the best innovations across the continent for 2016. Following the success of last year’s Awards which celebrated 10 winners from over 200 entries across 21 countries, the Awards return to Cape Town in association with Mobile Monday South Africa, Mobile Ecosystem Forum and the Mobile Marketing Association (MMA) and winners will be announced on November 14^th. 10  Categories Appsafrica.com welcomes applications in 10 categories from ventures who can clearly demonstrate innovation using mobile or technology to meet the needs of any African market(s)

• Disruptive Innovation Award
• Best Social & Messaging Award
• Best African App Award
• Enterprise Solution Award
• News & Entertainment Award
• Educational Award
• Fintech Award
• Social Impact Award
• Brand On Mobile Award
• Women In Tech Award  

Why enter? The Awards celebrate the best in mobile and tech from across Africa, providing winners with global publicity across multiple channels, recognition and networking with 500+ industry peers and investors at the Awards party. Applications will be assessed by a team of expert judges who are selected based on their knowledge, influence and contribution to the improvement of technology and business in Africa. The deadline for entries is September 10^th, 2016. The Appsafrica.com Innovation Awards finalists will be announced in October 2016. Enter now or visit www.appsafrica.com for more details. Images Please click here   Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKVlkIJNUlQ  

On Tuesday 12 July, Women in Tech Africa held its very first meetup event in Ireland in Dublin centre, under the theme: "Women in tech: Leveraging off our potential to make a meaningful impact". Sponsored and hosted by DogPatch Labs, an organisation which serves as a hub for technology meetups and a co-working space for growing tech startups, the event was organised in partnership with House of Akina, a social-enterprise that uses its profits to empower and support migrant women in Ireland. The event was attended by professionals as well as students, coming from a range of technology and non technology-related backgrounds, comprised of data analysts, network & telecom engineers, software developers as well as people from a tech background who evolved their careers into business management. Sessions began with a presentation of Women in tech Africa which highlighted the organisation's mission and vision, and ongoing activities to empower women in tech in Africa involving also women in tech in the Diaspora to contribute to Africa's advancement through technology. Round table discussions on the main theme followed, seeking to address the following questions:

• What is our potential as women in tech in the African Diaspora?
• What is holding us back to bring in our contribution?
• How can we make a difference ?
• How technology can assist in achieving that?

Inspiring and impactful comments came from the discussions, including the following:

• The Diaspora contribution should not be limited to financial remittances. Our experiences in tech and skills can be used to complement ongoing actions by people in Africa.
• Working together is the key, together we are stronger and we can achieve great things. Meetups are an opportunity to make connections and be complementary in our potential actions.
• Technology being one of the key drivers of Africa's growth currently, leveraging off our expertise as women in tech to make a contribution through technology is essential.
• The challenge for African Diaspora women in tech is to be aware of the changes ongoing in Africa when we are not physically present there. It is essential to initiate collaboration and partnerships with local organisations/tech innovators/women in tech to understand the needs and how our contribution can come in support is essential.

Discussions continued during a networking session around food and drinks kindly offered by the event sponsor. The meetup enabled women in tech who attended:

• To share their experiences in tech
• To be inspired by panellists inputs and other attendees' comments is on the main discussion
• To network with other attendees and develop connections for potential partnership projects

The event was a great fun and the participants' feedback were positive and encouraging. As noted one contributor : " tomorrow starts now" for the women in tech Africa chapter in Ireland. A coding workshop is being organised in the weeks to come, and another meetup in the last week of September during the Women in tech Africa week. By Nicaise Ishimwe

On the 15th July, we had the honors of having the CEO of Digicel Haiti Selorm Adadevoh to be our resource person for our very first  twitter chat on leadership. In case you missed the live chat. Below are the questioned we asked him and his answers. Enjoy!

1. Tell us about your career journey and how you became the CEO of Digicel Haiti

Answer Very long story. I started my career in the UK in 1998 for a Construction co. called Taylor Woodrow. At the time I was a Civil Engineer but had an interest to be part of the emerging economy in IT. I joined Tigo in Ghana to pursue my dream to be CEO. Getting to CEO was really about delivering results as a COO I believe strong leadership and building teams was the main driver to get to CEO. After 3 years at Tigo I got an opportunity to join Digicel. At Wharton, My life changed and my dream was to become CEO. After several years building solutions for TelCos mainly, I decided to go to go do an MBA. My career as a Technology Consultant at HP was the start of something special. So, I quit and started looking at Technology opportunities. After a few bumps, I joined HP.  

2. What can one do to ensure career growth?

Answers Tricky question I have to say Firstly, I believe understanding the specific skills needed to move up. Not as easy as it sounds Secondly, having a great mentor who can give you sound and objective feedback regularly. It's too easy to fall when obstacles show up. They will, but the more determined one finds a way. Lastly, it's about the individual. You have to want it enough to be determined to put in the effort.  

3. What opportunities or resources can one take advantage of to grow a career?

Answers I've relied a lot on listening to personal stories on TedX and Harvard Business Reviews... I've only invested a lot of time mtg people who have overcome similar challenges to learn from them. A lot actually. I find that today, in trying to build teams I rely a lot on my network. Most of my last few roles have been because I got a call from someone in my network.  

4. What is your take on asking for new roles in your organisation?

Answers Personally, I don't ask for new roles but I ask for new challenges. To go up, you need to demonstrate capability - asking for new challenges & delivering paves the way  

5. How does volunteering roles help with career growth? Does it help atall

Answers Volunteering roles could be anything you want them to be and that's the beauty of it. I volunteered for 3 months at an IT shop when I was determined to move into Technology My goal was clear to learn a new trade to drive my career. I've also volunteered to give back My motivation then was to contribute to the development of others. Both have played a role Personally, I don't ask for new roles but I ask for new challenges.  

6. How can one quickly become a strong contributor within an organization?

Answer It really starts with understanding what the organization needs but also what is valued. I find that what is valued is not always what is needed. When I have been a strong contributor I have found that what I believe and what is valued tends to be aligned.   On considering values and aligning Answer I will agree. The alignment though depends on whether your values will support that I have walked away a few times because I refused to align My values were conflicted with what the organization valued  

7. How can one effectively take diverse roles while sticking to their career paths?

Answers I have a concept called "optionality". Meaning developing multiple skills to always remain relevant. Taking diverse roles where one is developing complementary skill set prepares one for career growth.  

8. What is your take on the number of years one can serve in an organisation before moving on to a new job?

Answer I'm the wrong person I think. I've worked for 18 years and my longest role has been 2 years I think it will be wrong to stipulate an ideal number of years. To me, it's about continued growth I've changed roles or moved organizations to move up, never only for financial benefits. Once you stop learning, plus you stop contributing to the growth of others, then it's time to move on Finally go in with no expectation and put in a lot of effort to demonstrate relevance  

9. Tell Us about your Leadership style and how that has helped on the journey

Answer Personally I tend to be a development focused leader which shapes my leadership interaction However, I've learnt over the years that I'm more of a visionary leader based on leadership style That involves leading by inspiring and challenging the status quo It also means getting people to perform close to their best through development and coaching Leadership is something I continue to develop in, I read a lot and try out new things everyday. In my world, leadership is dynamic and my style somewhat adapts depending on what is needed.     "To end, I will say, be sure what you believe and never compromise on it" - Selorm Adadevoh    

Women In Tech Africa Kenya Chapter Quarterly Event was held on the 30^th June 2016 under the theme “Supporting our Girls and Female entrepreneurs” at the Women’s Entrepreneurial Center of Resources, Education, Access, Training for Economic Empowerment (WECREATE) Center in Nairobi which serves as an entrepreneurial community centre for women interested in starting or expanding an existing business. We partnered with NEST, an early stage venture capital firm specialising in startups developing technologies in industries such as HealthTech, FinTech and SmartCity/IoT.   We brought in a team of experienced panellists:   Jaki  Mebur : Senior Core Networks Support Engineer at Safaricom Limited and is part of Safaricom Women In Tech   Mary Mwangi: Co-founder, entrepreneur and CEO of Data Integrated Limited an ICT company that specializes in automating payment processing systems.   Melizsa Mugyenyi:  is an international development practitioner specialized in fundraising and partnership building and Director of Partnerships at Ongeza Fund. Ongeza Fund unlocks liquidity for early stage shareholders of high impact ventures in emerging markets Caren Kakai: Project Manager at Nest.       Panellists: (Left-Right) Jaki Mebur, Melizsa Mugyenyi, Caren Kakai, Mary Mwangi, Sylvia Mukasa WITA Kenya Chapter Lead The focus of the discussions was how to make a “Perfect Pitch” to attract funding from potential investors. It was a great evening of learning and engaging with the panellists.   You can pick a few tips on what a good pitch entails by watching this video: https://youtu.be/CUladd6ZktE

    Press Release  Women in Tech Africa hosts first and largest ever women gathering on technology in Africa. (over 400 events planned in 40 countries)   Accra, 18 May 2016 -- Over 3000 women working in technology from across Africa and the diaspora will be meeting physically and virtually in over 40 countries across Africa and the Diaspora to discuss barriers and opportunities for  women and girls working in technology.  The event, Women in Tech Week, organized by Women in Tech Africa will kick off from 26-30^th September 2016 in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi.   Women in Tech Week is the 1st and largest ever all women event to be held in Africa. It is a  5-day event aimed at bringing together various players supporting growth of women in technology and leadership.   The event, which is jointly organised by Women in Tech Africa with support from software giant SAP global will include curated user generated events with partners across 40 countries bringing together 40,000 users onsite and virtually.   “This is a collaborative attempt to build a pan-African network, allowing us women to compare our challenges, learn from other countries and connect across borders to expand our influence,” said Founder of Women in Tech Africa and CEO of Edel Technology Consulting, Ethel Cofie   In Africa, technology is till seen as a male dominated field, so many  women in Africa, working in technology find it challenging and at times an isolating experience. The impact of this can limit women’s professional growth in the sector.   “Women need mentors, role-models and a network to share their experiences, challenges and skills. The magnitude of this event in Africa is unprecedented and presents an opportunity for women in this field to brainstorm on how to unlock the continent’s potential,” Ms Cofie added.   The week long event will discuss issues such the role of women  in building Africa’s digital economy, opportunities for research and why there is the need to invest in women interested in pursuing careers in this field.   There is more information on the event website: http://techweek.womenintechafrica.com   >>ENDS>>       Notes for Editors For interviews and comments on this event, please contact, Adisa Amanor-Wilks (in London), madylans@hotmail.com, or +44 (0) 7553505101   For Partnerships and Sponsorships please contact partnerships@womenintechafrica.com or ethel.cofie@womenintechafrica.com     About women in tech Africa Women in Tech Africa is a membership charity supporting women working in technology across Africa to positively Support their Communities. Women in Tech Africa has membership of over 30 countries on the continent and in the diaspora - Ghana, Kenya and London, South Africa and Nigeria among others. Some of our activities include:

• Programming to support children choosing Science Technology and Math Careers
• Training Female entrepreneurs on the use of technology to grow their business
• Networking and Thought Leadership Events for Women in Tech
• Partnering with industry players to bring job and growth opportunities to our members.

For more information, visit womenintechafrica.com    

AFTER BEING JUDGED ONE THE 100 MOST GLOBALLY COMPETITIVE STARTUP’S IN GHANA, EDEL TECHNOLOGY CONSULTING IS NOMINATED FOR IT CONSULTING FIRM OF THE YEAR EDEL Technology consulting (www.edelitconsult.com ) has been nominated in this year’s Ghana Telecom Award now re-branded Ghana Information Technology and Telecom Awards (GITTA), in the category “IT consulting firm of the year”. EDEL Technology Consulting is a Global brand that uses the combination of modern project management techniques, Standard software engineering and industrial strength architecture to deliver technology solutions to its clients, with projects delivered in West Africa and UK. EDEL prides itself as one of the best in the IT industry in Africa. The GITTA awards is the only awards in Ghana which recognizes the excellence in the ICT industry. It is the most respected awards that celebrates excellence in innovation, product development and service delivery. EDEL Technology has array of past and current clients like the World Bank, Dalex Finance (6th Company on the Ghana Cub 100 list and Chartered Institute of Marketing Ghana (CIMG) Non-Bank Financial Institute of 2014 and Clean Team Ghana (a project funded by the Unilever) EDEL is currently funded by USADF (United States Africa development fund) to build micro working platform (M-ablode www.mablode.com ) to help shape the future of work across Africa According to the CEO of EDEL Technology Consulting, Ethel Cofie, “Nominations means recognition and hence throws a challenge to us keep being the best and to improve on our services delivered to our clients. We at EDEL are glad to be nominated for this award and we will continue to deliver the best for our clients, to have a good lasting partnership with them ready and also to work with new clients” EDEL Technology was also recently judged one of the top globally competitive Startup’s in Ghana Find out how we can become a technology partner for your organization at www.edelitconsult.com and also request a free consultation from the EDEL Team here http://edelitconsult.com/request-a-call/

Premium Gold Entrepreneur Membership(100 USD per annum)

Description Our entrepreneurs start with big dreams and drive. Through the 12 months’ experience, they evolve, becoming skilled entrepreneurial managers. They become the leaders who launch what matters. Description of Content to be provided within the 12 months of private webinars and content ENTREPRENEURIAL STRATEGY AND THE BUSINESS MODEL Review of successful entrepreneurial business models and the initial challenges these business models encountered. ENTREPRENEURIAL MARKETING Reviews and applies entrepreneurial marketing approaches used by successful entrepreneurs. These include utilizing industry sector trends, identifying emerging customer niches, developing new products/services, using guerilla marketing strategies, and Internet and social marketing strategies. Methods to research industry sector trends, identify emerging needs, develop new product and service ideas, and evaluate their feasibility, competitive advantage, and potential profitability. Explore the relationship between a well-developed marketing plan and a guide to successfully raising start-up capital. ENTREPRENEURIAL LEADERSHIP This explores how to identify and develop solutions to the most common leadership and personal challenges faced by entrepreneurs when starting new ventures or launching new products. Promotes a deeper understanding of what is required to be a successful entrepreneur. Highlights the skills and tools necessary to start a new business and explores alternatives to common pitfalls. [ut_button color="red" link="http://paypal.me/WITA" target="_self" size="large" ]Become an Gold Entrepreneur Member[/ut_button]    

Benefits for Members	Implementation Plan
One private premium member’s webinar with Career Leaders, Thought leaders and Experts per quarter	June 14th 2016 August 14th 2016 November 14th 2016 Jan 14 2107
Enrolled into a private network to enable networking amongst premium members to encourage expansion of member’s close network across Africa and enable peer learning across the continent	Enrolled 3 days after sign
Free Access to one paid event per year and	Member Requests for Code for that event
First to be contacted when our partners like Cisco HR team and CIO Magazines have opportunities	Direct Email
Discounts to partners events and conferences (e.g. WIT Conference in the US)	Direct Email
One investor event per annum
Opportunity to run peer teaching exercises (which will be shared on our channels to help your personal brand) and volunteer opportunities to enrich you CV and pick up new skills to impress hiring managers	Direct Email

 

  [ut_togglegroup] [ut_toggle title="Premium Gold Career Membership" state="open"]

Premium Gold Career Membership(100 USD per annum)

Description Targeted toward career Women to support their career growth and leadership potential. Women who choose career gold will be given the tools and network to move to the next level in their careers. *Members in the diaspora will have more programming around either finding roles back on the continent as well as opportunities back home     Description of Content to be provided within the 12 months of private webinars and content How do you turn an inflection point in your career into an opportunity? How can you catapult your career to the next level? Executive Leadership Development: Analysis to Action won't give you a specific leadership recipe to follow. But it will teach you how to cook for yourself; strengthening your analytical tools, management acumen, and interpersonal skills. This comprehensive, set of premium webinars, enhanced content and coaching over the course of twelve months will empower you to build and motivate effective teams, resolve strategic problems, and drive change in yourself and your organization. [ut_button color="red" link="http://paypal.me/WITA" target="_self" size="large" ]Become a Premium Gold Career Member[/ut_button]      

Benefits for Members	Implementation Plan
One private premium member’s webinar with Career Leaders, Thought leaders and Experts per quarter	June 14th 2016 August 14th 2016 November 14th 2016 Jan 14 2107
Enrolled into a private network to enable networking amongst premium members to encourage expansion of member’s close network across Africa and enable peer learning across the continent	Enrolled 3 days after sign
Free Access to one paid event per year and	Member Requests for Code for that event
First to be contacted when our partners like Cisco HR team and CIO Magazines have opportunities	Direct Email
Discounts to partners events and conferences (e.g. WIT Conference in the US)	Direct Email
One investor event per annum
Opportunity to run peer teaching exercises (which will be shared on our channels to help your personal brand) and volunteer opportunities to enrich you CV and pick up new skills to impress hiring managers	Direct Email

[/ut_toggle] [ut_toggle title="Premium Entrepreneur  Membership"]

Premium Gold Entreprenuer Membership(100 USD per annum)

Description Our entrepreneurs start with big dreams and drive. Through the 12 months’ experience, they evolve, becoming skilled entrepreneurial managers. They become the leaders who launch what matters.   Description of Content to be provided within the 12 months of private webinars and content ENTREPRENEURIAL STRATEGY AND THE BUSINESS MODEL Review of successful entrepreneurial business models and the initial challenges these business models encountered. ENTREPRENEURIAL MARKETING Reviews and applies entrepreneurial marketing approaches used by successful entrepreneurs. These include utilizing industry sector trends, identifying emerging customer niches, developing new products/services, using guerilla marketing strategies, and Internet and social marketing strategies. Methods to research industry sector trends, identify emerging needs, develop new product and service ideas, and evaluate their feasibility, competitive advantage, and potential profitability. Explore the relationship between a well-developed marketing plan and a guide to successfully raising start-up capital. ENTREPRENEURIAL LEADERSHIP This explores how to identify and develop solutions to the most common leadership and personal challenges faced by entrepreneurs when starting new ventures or launching new products. Promotes a deeper understanding of what is required to be a successful entrepreneur. Highlights the skills and tools necessary to start a new business and explores alternatives to common pitfalls.   [ut_button color="red" target="_self" size="large" ]Become an Gold Entrepreneur Member[/ut_button] [wp_cart_button name="Women in Tech Africa Gold Entrepreneur Premium Membership " price="100.00"] [show_wp_shopping_cart]

Benefits for Members	Implementation Plan
One private premium member’s webinar with Career Leaders, Thought leaders and Experts per quarter	June 14th 2016 August 14th 2016 November 14th 2016 Jan 14 2107   Speaker List
Enrolled into a private network to enable networking amongst premium members to encourage expansion of member’s close network across Africa and enable peer learning across the continent	Enrolled 3 days after sign
Free Access to one paid event per year and	Member Requests for Code for that event
First to be contacted when on Job Opportunities	Direct Email
Discounts to partners events and conferences (e.g. WIT Conference in the US)	Direct Email
One counselling event per annum
Opportunity to run peer teaching exercises (which will be shared on our channels to help your personal brand) and volunteer opportunities to enrich you CV and pick up new skills to impress hiring managers	Direct Email

[/ut_toggle] [/ut_togglegroup]

In Africa’s male-dominated technology (tech) scene, women remain largely underrepresented. Yet there is a growing sense that a handful of incredible women are setting new standards and encouraging others especially younger women to become “techy”. Many believe that when one woman helps another, amazing things can happen-professional careers leap forward. Yes indeed, amazing things do happen. I recently attended one of these gatherings where established women professionals in technology were mentoring young women aspiring to take their STEM careers a step further. I feel lucky. My generation is seeing a paradigm shift both in women’s reception to Science and technology information- a field which traditionally was considered male dominated - and the support that women are giving each other these days. It’s a remarkable turnaround! I kid you not. It’s been a long journey. This mentoring session was organized by Women in Tech Africa. An organisation borne out of the perseverance and persistence of likeminded women on the continent, spearheaded by Ethel Cofie. In her own words, Ethel says: “Working in technology can, at times, be an isolating experience for women, especially in Africa. The impact of this can limit women’s professional growth in the sector. Women need mentors, role-models and a network to share their experiences, challenges and skills. Some Women in Technology clubs exist already, but to date, no-one has attempted to build a pan-African network, allowing us to compare our challenges, learn from other countries and connect across borders to expand our influence.” Apart from founding WITA, Africa’s largest women in tech group with members in over 30 Africa countries and physical chapter in Ghana ,Kenya  and London, Ms. Cofie is also CEO and Founder of EDEL Technology Consulting (An IT Consulting and Digital Products Company in West Africa and Europe). She know too well hoow difficult it can be for anyone aspiring to set up their own IT start ups:  “Starting my own business was a struggle; a lot of ups and downs to the extent that I had to shut down, get corporate jobs and restart from zero. This is because I had at that time not much knowledge or anyone to advise me on how to nurture and grow a startup, customer acquisition and retention among other. I decided to start a school to help other women on insight into beginning a startup.”   written by: Adisa Amanor Wilks - communications professional passionate about Africa. And Gloria Dogbey - Innovation Analyst with EDEL Technology Consulting and Coordinator of Women in Tech Africa                   Also at the event was Angela Mazza the Chief Operating Officer (COO) for .  She told us about her journey as a woman navigating the world of technology, and what it means to her to be in her position in one of the biggest software development companies in the world. Read more about Angela>>