The CXO Conversations - Skills That Scale: Empowering Africa’s Digital Generation

Synopsis:

In this episode of CXO Conversations, Matteo Rizzi speaks with Robert Okello, CEO and co-founder of Maarifasasa, about unlocking Africa’s potential through skills and opportunity. Inspired by his own journey - from a small village in northern Uganda to global education - Robert shares how access to learning transformed his life and shaped his mission. The conversation explores the critical skills gap across Africa, where talent is abundant but opportunities are limited. Robert explains how Maarifasasa is bridging this divide by training young people with practical, job-ready digital skills and connecting them to global work opportunities. With insights on education, workforce development, and the power of technology, this episode highlights how investing in talent can drive inclusive growth and transform lives across the continent.

About Robert Okello
Robert Bob Okello is the visionary founder and CEO of Maarifasasa Limited, a Pan-African tech company transforming education and employment opportunities for young Africans. Robert's journey began in Uganda, where he was the first in his village to own a laptop.

Despite almost dropping out of school after primary education due to financial hardships, he excelled academically, becoming one of Uganda's top students and winning scholarships for his entire educational journey. He later graduated from the University of Oklahoma, where he designed and earned a unique degree in African Development Engineering with a minor in Entrepreneurship.

Maarifasasa, which means "Knowledgeable" in Swahili, started as a summer project in a family garage. Since its inception, the company has upskilled over 6,000 youths in digital skills and facilitated nearly 1,500 digital job placements for young Africans after the Covid-19 pandemic. By focusing on marginalized communities, Maarifasasa bridges the digital divide, ensuring that Africa’s youth have the skills and opportunities they need to thrive in the modern economy.

Under Robert's leadership, Maarifasasa is pioneering innovative solutions to empower Africa's next generation, leveraging technology to unlock earning opportunities and foster sustainable development. The company's impact continues to grow, making it a driving force in shaping a more prosperous and equitable future across the continent.

Through his dedication and vision, Robert Bob Okello is transforming lives and contributing significantly to Africa's digital evolution.