We are thrilled to announce the latest addition to our esteemed Board of Directors at Longhorn Publishers PLC. Dr. Shikoh Gitau, a distinguished Kenyan computer scientist and a trailblazer in digital innovation, has joined us as an Independent Director. Her appointment was confirmed during our Annual General Meeting held on March 15, 2024.
Dr. Gitau brings to Longhorn Publishers PLC a wealth of experience spanning over a decade in research, design, implementation, and management of digital technologies. She is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Qhala, a Digital Innovation company at the forefront of catalyzing digital transformation capabilities for organizations across Africa.
With a strong background in solving complex problems in various sectors including Agriculture, Education, Health, Payments, Retail, and Renewable energies, Dr. Gitau’s expertise is unparalleled. Her previous roles include serving as the Head of Products – Innovation and acting as the Chief Innovation Officer of Safaricom PLC. She has also contributed significantly to organizations such as Africa Development Bank (AfDB), Google, and Microsoft in their emerging markets teams.
Dr. Gitau holds a PhD and MSc in Computer Science from the University of Cape Town, South Africa. She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking work, including the invention of mobile applications like M-Ganga and Ummeli. These applications have played a pivotal role in promoting health and medicine, as well as matching unemployed workers with employment opportunities, making significant strides towards inclusive growth.
Throughout her career, Dr. Gitau has been the recipient of numerous awards and accolades, including being the first African to win the Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship. Her contributions have been acknowledged globally, and she continues to be a driving force in shaping the intersection of technology, business, and society.
We are honored to welcome Dr. Gitau to our Board of Directors and are excited about the insights, expertise, and networks she brings to Longhorn Publishers PLC. As we navigate the evolving landscape of the publishing industry, Dr. Gitau’s visionary leadership will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in propelling our company to new heights.
Join us in extending a warm welcome to Dr. Shikoh Gitau as we embark on this exciting journey together towards a future of innovation and growth.