The Regional Executive for West Africa at Africa Data Centres, Dr. Krishnan Ranganath, has been named the Digital Economy Personality of the Year at the 10th Africa Digital Economy Awards. The gala event, recently held in Nairobi, Kenya, brought together leaders across the ICT and digital infrastructure space to celebrate outstanding contributions to Africa’s digital transformation.
Ranganath, widely known as Dr. Krish, emerged as the top choice after receiving the highest number of votes and nominations from senior stakeholders across the continent. The recognition reflects the respect he commands within the industry and underscores his commitment to advancing digital infrastructure in Africa.
Founder of Digital Economy and organiser of the awards, Akin Naphtal, said the voting results were a glaring indication of Ranganath’s impact.
“When you look at the number of votes, it is glaring that Dr. Krish has shown his capacity and prowess in what we now refer to as the digital economy in Africa. You will also agree with me that he is one of those who pioneered the infrastructure that is powering the digital economy,” Naphtal said.
Ranganath and his team at Africa Data Centres are currently focused on strengthening sovereign ICT infrastructure across Africa, a critical step towards ensuring digital sovereignty and driving sustainable economic growth on the continent.
This latest honour adds to a string of accolades for Dr. Ranganath in 2025. His earlier recognitions include Tech Ecosystem Builder of the Year at the Titans of Tech Awards, Digital Economy Trailblazer of the Year at the Digital Innovation Awards, Digital Transformation Pioneer Award at the Beacon of ICT Merit and Leadership Awards, and his listing among the Top 50 Most Valuable Personalities in Nigeria’s Digital Economy.
Receiving the award from the Deputy High Commissioner of India to Kenya, Shri Prasad, a visibly elated Dr. Ranganath expressed gratitude to his peers.
“I am personally grateful for my colleagues across Africa who have voted and nominated me. I do not take this honour for granted. I am dedicating this award to all those who believe in the sustained prosperity of the African continent,” he said.
The Africa Digital Economy Awards, now in its 10th year, celebrates Africa’s digital champions and innovators, aligning with the African Union’s digital transformation strategy. This milestone edition highlighted the continent’s progress, from emerging tech hubs to a thriving ecosystem of startups and digital leaders.
