The Papyrus Global has called for stronger pathways to convert research and technical knowledge into practical products, services and businesses. It said such linkages are critical to the development of Africa’s technology ecosystem.
The organisation made the call while highlighting the entrepreneurial journey of Zimbabwean technology expert and founder and chief executive officer of KiwaConnect (Pvt) Ltd, Engr. Fungai Jacqueline Kiwa, whom it honoured as Africa’s Most Outstanding Emerging CEO in Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation for 2026.
The recognition is part of the 9th edition of the Global Distinguished CEOs Awards (GLODICEA) 2026, an international platform established by The Papyrus Global to identify and celebrate business leaders contributing to Africa’s private sector and professional economy.
According to the organisation, Kiwa was selected for her professional experience in digital engineering, artificial intelligence, machine learning, software development, ICT for development, research and innovation, as well as her emerging entrepreneurial leadership through KiwaConnect.
The Papyrus Global said her contributions to the development and application of artificial intelligence and other digital technologies were major factors in the recognition.
It noted that her professional work combines technical expertise with a development-oriented approach to addressing contemporary challenges.
Her innovation portfolio includes Zim ServicePulse, an initiative focused on applying digital and AI-enabled technologies to public-service and societal challenges.
The project was also selected among the leading projects in Zimbabwe’s 2026 AI for Impact Challenge, according to a selection document issued by The Papyrus Global.
The organisation said Dr. Kiwa had contributed to Zimbabwe’s technology and innovation ecosystem by connecting research, technical expertise and innovation with enterprise development through KiwaConnect.
It added that her work reflected efforts to develop technology around African realities, taking into account local institutions, communities, economic conditions and development priorities.
The Papyrus Global said Dr. Kiwa’s career represented a transition from technical and research expertise into emerging enterprise leadership, noting that through KiwaConnect, she was applying her technology and research experience to entrepreneurship and technology-driven solutions.
The organisation described her entrepreneurial journey as part of the broader need to strengthen pathways through which African research and technical knowledge can be transformed into practical products, services and businesses.
In her acceptance letter dated September 12, 2026, Dr. Kiwa expressed appreciation to The Papyrus Global and confirmed her acceptance of the GLODICEA 2026 recognition.
“I am deeply honoured to be considered among the distinguished leaders being recognised for their contributions to business, leadership, innovation and society,” she said.
Dr. Kiwa also confirmed that she would attend the GLODICEA 2026 award ceremony in person.
The GLODICEA 2026 award ceremony is scheduled for October 30, 2026, at The Brookside, Maitama, Abuja, where business leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, diplomats, policymakers and other stakeholders from Africa and selected international markets are expected to gather.
Dr. Kiwa will also be inducted into the Global Distinguished CEOs Fellowship (GLOCEF) during the ceremony.
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