As the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of Smart Africa, Lacina Koné has been instrumental in shaping the continent’s digital agenda, marking him as a pivotal figure in the global tech scene.
Lacina Koné joined Smart Africa in March 2019, taking on the role of defining and advancing a digital strategy for the continent. His leadership has seen the development of key continental initiatives like Digital Identity, ICT Start-ups, Innovation Ecosystems, and the ambitious Smart Villages and Africa’s Smart Broadband 2025 Strategy. Under his guidance, Smart Africa has become more than just an organization; it’s a catalyst for digital transformation across Africa.
With over 25 years of experience in the ICT industry, Koné’s career trajectory is impressive. His journey spans telecommunications, satellite technology, and intelligent transport systems, having held significant positions at firms like Booz Allen Hamilton and Intelsat. This rich background provided him with the insights necessary to navigate the complexities of digital transformation in Africa.
Before his current role, Koné served as an advisor to both the President and Prime Minister of Côte d’Ivoire, where he was directly involved in crafting digital transformation and public reform policies. His tenure in these advisory roles underscored his commitment to using technology to enhance governance and public service delivery.
Koné’s vision extends beyond infrastructure; he is a staunch advocate for digital inclusion. In interviews, he has highlighted the necessity of addressing the digital divide in Africa, where connectivity can be a game-changer for rural communities. He speaks passionately about ensuring that digital advancements benefit all Africans, not just the urban elite. His push for affordable internet access, device availability, local content, and trust in technology aims to catapult Africa’s internet usage from 42% to 70% by 2025.
His work has not gone unnoticed. In 2021, Koné was ranked 12th among the 50 personalities advancing Africa’s digital transformation. Further acclaim came in 2022 when Jeune Afrique recognized him as one of the top 10 digital trendsetters in Africa. These accolades reflect his significant impact on both policy and practice in the ICT sector.
Lacina Koné has also been a vocal proponent of leveraging Artificial Intelligence for societal benefits, particularly in healthcare through e-health solutions. He envisions AI as a tool to provide diagnostic services and first aid remotely, especially in under-served areas like Niger. Furthermore, he’s been active in discussions around cybersecurity, emphasizing the need for African nations to establish robust digital defenses against cyber threats.
Educated across three continents, Koné holds a bachelor’s degree in electronic engineering from the United Arab Emirates, a master’s degree in data communication systems from Brunel University in the UK, and an MBA from George Washington University in the US. His global educational experience enriches his approach to solving Africa’s unique challenges with a blend of international best practices.
His influence extends internationally as well, serving on advisory boards for Benya Capital in Egypt and Townlabour Technologies in the USA, and as a Commissioner in the Broadband Commission for Sustainable Development.
Lacina Koné is not just leading Smart Africa; he’s leading a movement towards a digitally empowered Africa. His efforts are a testament to the belief that technology can be a great equalizer, providing opportunities for economic growth, improved governance, and enhanced quality of life across the continent. As Africa continues to digitize, Koné’s leadership will undoubtedly remain central to the narrative of technological empowerment and innovation in Africa.
