NTT DATA has appointed Vinesh Maharaj as the Director of Smart Manufacturing and Industry for the Middle East and Africa, aiming to enhance its presence in Africa’s digital economy.

• Vinesh Maharaj has over 30 years of experience in the manufacturing sector.
• This role is part of NTT DATA's strategy to invest in local leadership and smart manufacturing solutions in Africa.
• Maharaj aims to blend cutting-edge technologies with practical execution to boost manufacturing capabilities across the continent.

Kenya’s flagship smart city, Konza Technopolis, has achieved three significant milestones: winning the Esri Special Achievement in GIS award, launching a pioneering drone traffic management system, and signing an innovation collaboration with AfriLabs.

• Recognition at the Global GIS Excellence Awards in San Diego emphasized Konza's effective use of GIS for urban planning and smart services.
• John Paul Okwiri, CEO of Konza Technopolis, noted that the award validates their technology-first development approach.
• The new drone traffic management system supports safe drone operations in compliance with regulations and aims to boost investment in Kenya's tech future.