Best African Tech Conversations Podcasts (2025)

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From Spoken Word to Community Leadership: Paulina O’Kieffe-Anthony's Journey 54:40

6h ago54:40

54:40

What does it truly mean to "do the work" in the arts world? Paulina O’Kieffe-Anthony answers this question through her remarkable journey from shaking like a leaf during her first spoken word performance to becoming an award-winning curator and advocate who's secured over a million dollars for arts organizations. This conversation sparkles with ins…

1
Connecting with Divine Intelligence: Ellen Edmondson's Spiritual Awaking. 54:35

1d ago54:35

54:35

Have you ever sensed there's more to reality than what meets the eye? Ellen Edmondson's extraordinary journey from logical federal executive to spiritual messenger began with profound loss—her mother's passing just months before her son's birth—triggering questions that would transform her understanding of life's purpose. Through meditation intende…

1
A preview of the 2025-26 Season at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre(04-26-25) 15:23

2d ago15:23

15:23

On this week's episode, host Phil Tower speaks with Noddea Skidmore, the Director of Marketing and Communications with Grand Rapids Civic Theatre. Noddea gave us a preview of the upcoming 20 25–20 26 season at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre, and talked as well about ticket packages that patrons can take advantage of. We also discussed the upcoming "Ten…

1
AI Shadows: A 9-Year-Old’s Guide to Embracing the Future Smarter Campus Podcast Episode 7 17:28

5d ago17:28

17:28

In this heartwarming episode of the Smarter Campus Podcast, 9-year-old AI enthusiast Emily joins Zach to show us why artificial intelligence isn’t as scary as it seems. Drawing on her brilliant “shadow” analogy—how a dark shape can feel frightening at first but soon becomes just another way to see yourself—Emily walks us through the simple steps an…

1
From the Frontlines: Marc Watkins on AI in the Classroom and the Future of Education Smarter Campus Episode 6 24:31

6d ago24:31

24:31

In this episode of the Smarter Campus Podcast, Zach sits down with Marc Watkins, Assistant Director for Academic Innovation at the University of Mississippi, to explore how AI is actually being used in the classroom today. Marc shares real-world best practices for integrating AI into teaching, from assignments to academic integrity. They also dive …

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Global Classrooms, Local Impact: Davy Mbuto Nkurunziza on AI in African Education Smarter Campus Episode 5 26:31

10d ago26:31

26:31

In this episode of the Smarter Campus Podcast, Zach sits down with Davy Mbuto Nkurunziza to explore the powerful intersection of AI and education in Africa. From enhancing access and equity to rethinking how teachers and students engage with learning tools, Davy shares how AI is shaping the future of education on the continent. They dive into the r…

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How the Tech Collaborative empowers West Michigan non-profits with innovative tech solutions(04-19-25) 15:09

10d ago15:09

15:09

On this week's episode, host John Rumery welcomes Lydia Kauffman, a Project Manager at Carnevale and COO at The Tech-Collaborative The Tech Collaborative empowers non-profits with innovative tech solutions, enabling them to maximize their impact. They are committed to nurturing the next generation of tech by providing opportunities for non-traditio…

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Should You Freak Out? Your Money Matters Conversation. 59:00

9d ago59:00

59:00

Send us a text Let’s Talk About Your Money—Join Us for a Community Conversation! Over the past few weeks, I have listened closely to the major concerns about navigating today’s unpredictable economy. Many have asked: ❓ How can I protect my family or business from financial uncertainty? 📈 Where are the best opportunities to invest right now? 🔒 What …

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Human-Centered Learning in the Age of AI: A Conversation with Dr. Sarah Gibson Smarter Campus Episode 4 20:15

12d ago20:15

20:15

In this inspiring episode of the Smarter Campus Podcast, host Zach Kinzler engages with Dr. Sarah Gibson, Associate Professor of Communication at Lipscomb University, to explore the evolving landscape of education in the age of artificial intelligence. Dr. Gibson shares her insights on integrating AI into the classroom, emphasizing the importance o…

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Innovating Education: Dr. Manish Malik on AI's Role in the Classroom. Smarter Campus Podcast Episode 3 30:37

13d ago30:37

30:37

In this engaging episode of the Smarter Campus Podcast, Dr. Manish Malik, a distinguished academic and technology innovator, shares his insights on the intersection of education and technology. He delves into the transformative role of artificial intelligence in reshaping learning environments and emphasizes the importance of integrating AI tools t…

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The Builder's Mindset: Yassine Laghzioui on Entrepreneurship, Deep Tech, and Africa's Future 32:52

14d ago32:52

32:52

Yassine Laghzioui, CEO of UM6P Ventures and Director of Entrepreneurship at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, joins The Grinders Table to discuss building Africa's innovation ecosystem through deep tech investment. When Yassine chose to return to Morocco while his peers stayed abroad, he embarked on a journey to transform how innovation happens i…

1
Elise Harding-Davis: "We Have a History That's Left Out, That Makes History Incomplete." 55:58

15d ago55:58

55:58

The threads of African-Canadian history weave a story of resistance, resilience, and remarkable achievement that spans centuries—yet these vital narratives remain largely untold in mainstream historical accounts. Elise Harding-Davis changes that through her lifelong dedication to preserving and promoting Black Canadian history. As a seventh-generat…

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Empowering Educators: Nick Potkalitsky on Teacher-Led AI Transformation. Smarter Campus Podcast Episode 2 31:26

16d ago31:26

31:26

In this insightful episode of the Smarter Campus Podcast, Nick Potkalitsky, Ph.D., founder of Pragmatic AI Solutions and author of AI in Education: A Roadmap for a Teacher-Led Transformation, discusses the integration of artificial intelligence in education. He emphasizes the importance of teacher-led initiatives in adopting AI technologies, advoc…

1
Previewing Curiousity In Action: A Conference In Doing at The Saugatuck Center for The Arts(04-12-25) 15:52

17d ago15:52

15:52

On this week's program, Station manager, Phil Tower welcomes Whitney Valentine, Director of Education + Exhibitions, with the Saugatuck Center for The Arts, and New York Times best-selling author in speaker Brad Montague. Brad Montague is the keynote speaker for the Curiosity In Action Conference on April 26 at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts. We…

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Behind the scenes at Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park with John Vanderhaagen(04-05-25) 13:09

24d ago13:09

13:09

On this week's episode, we welcome John VanderHaagen - Director of Communications, with Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. John provided us with a timely update on some important and newsworthy happenings at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. As the curtain falls on another long West Michigan winter, it's that time of year again when …

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From Vision to Venture to Scale: The Techstars Tulsa Blueprint 41:20

24d ago41:20

41:20

Send us a text Planet Wekeza sits down with Devon Fanfair, Managing Director of Techstars Tulsa, to unpack the program's unique 'vision to venture to scale' blueprint. Devon shares his expertise on navigating the startup journey, investing in high-potential ventures, and building a thriving tech ecosystem. Get ready for valuable insights into the f…

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Harnessing AI in Education: A Conversation with Dr. Michelle Kassorla Smarter Campus Podcast Episode 1 28:17

25d ago28:17

28:17

In this engaging episode of the Smarter Campus Podcast, Dr. Michelle Kassorla, Associate Professor of English at Georgia State University, delves into the transformative role of AI in education. She shares her insights on integrating artificial intelligence into teaching methodologies, highlighting innovative strategies to enhance learning experie…

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RESHARE: Scaling E-Commerce in Africa: Insights from Jumia's Ex CEO - Massimiliano Spalazzi 24:17

28d ago24:17

24:17

In this reshared episode, Uwem speaks with Massimiliano 'Massi' Spalazzi, former CEO of Jumia Nigeria and early employee who helped scale the company to become Africa's first tech IPO on the NYSE. Key highlights: The origins of Jumia in Nigeria and early challenges of building an e-commerce pioneer How Jumia introduced cash-on-delivery to transform…

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Breaking Barriers: A Conversation with Rohan Thompson, Dufferin County's Director of People and Equity 54:05

28d ago54:05

54:05

What happens when personal experience with discrimination fuels a lifelong commitment to equity work? Mr. Rohan Thompson, Director of People and Equity for the County of Dufferin, takes us on his remarkable journey from youth worker to systems change leader. Rohan reveals how childhood mentors who kept him "on the straight and narrow" inspired his …

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The 2025 Music Econ Summit: creating sustainable income and upward economic mobility for the Michigan music community(03-29-25) 17:13

1M ago17:13

17:13

In this episode, WYCE Station manager, Phil Tower speaks with Nik Thomasma, the Executive Director of The Michigan Music Alliance. The Michigan Music Alliance is presenting the Music Econ Summit at the Grand Rapids Center for Community Transformation in partnership with Monk Recordings LLC., Push the City Cipher and Triumph Music Academy. The Music…

1
Queen D. Michele - Discovering Your Roots: How Ancestry, Travel, and Self-Awareness Shape Healing 54:35

1M ago54:35

54:35

What would you do if you discovered your teacher's pension wouldn't be enough to sustain you after retirement? For Queen D Michelle, the answer came in a life-changing decision to leave Atlanta behind and start fresh in Mexico's Lake Chapala region. Her remarkable journey reveals how necessity can become the catalyst for profound personal transform…

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Beyond the Margins: Tina Garnett's Journey Through Systemic Barriers 53:14

1M ago53:14

53:14

"We are not what the system has told us we are," declares Tina Garnett, a powerful voice in the fight against systemic oppression. As a seventh-generation Black Canadian descended from Charlotte and James Handy, Garnett brings three decades of experience championing marginalized communities to this profound conversation about resilience, purpose, a…

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David Bulkowski, with Disability Advocates of Kent County on the importance of Disability Awareness Day on every day life (03-22-25) 14:26

1M ago14:26

14:26

In this episode, host, Phil Tower speaks with David Bulkowski, executive director, Disability Advocates of Kent County. Disability Advocates’ mission is “to work alongside persons with disabilities as they seek to lead self-directed lives.” They provide a wide array of services throughout Kent, Mecosta, Ionia, Montcalm, and Osceola counties to indi…

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BAM Talent: celebrating, promoting, and advocating for Black and underrepresented artists in West Michigan! (03-15-25) 16:31

1M ago16:31

16:31

In this episode, we welcome Darius Colquitt, Founder, President, Producing & Artistic Director, of BAM Talent. BAM (or Black Art Matters) Talent, was created & founded in 2021 as a forward-thinking organization, located in Grand Rapids, MI., dedicated to celebrating, promoting, and advocating for Black and underrepresented artists. BAM works as a n…

1
Amita Sharma and Nourishdoc: Empowering Women Through Perimenopause and Beyond 48:02

1M ago48:02

48:02

Half of a woman's life is spent in perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause—yet these critical transitions remain under-researched, underfunded, and shrouded in unnecessary taboo. That's what drove Amita Sharma, after suffering in silence through her own hormonal journey, to create Nourishdoc: a holistic wellness platform empowering women throu…

1
Technology, Faith, and Purpose: Jelle Schuitemaker's Mission to Reduce Child Mortality with Goal 3 36:20

1M ago36:20

36:20

In this episode of The Grinders Table, we speak with Jelle Schuitemaker, co-founder of Goal 3, whose innovative patient monitoring system has reduced child mortality by 42% in African hospitals. Jelle shares his journey from first encountering global inequality in the Philippines to building technology that's transforming healthcare in low-resource…

1
Africa's Infrastructure in 2025: Rachel More-Oshodi on the M300 Summit 36:48

2M ago36:48

36:48

In this episode of the AVCA podcast, Rachel More-Oshodi, CEO of ARM-Harith Infrastructure Investment, shares insights from the Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit and discusses trends in Africa's infrastructure landscape. Drawing on findings from AVCA's 'Private Capital Investment in Africa's Infrastructure' report, Rachel examines how Africa's renewa…

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A behind the scenes preview of The Live From Wealthy Street Comedy Fundraiser (03-08-25) 13:39

2M ago13:39

13:39

On this week's program, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower speaks with comedian Brian Atkinson, plus therapist Matt Sharpe and radio & podcast host Rick Vuyst. All three are set to appear with Kyle Underwood, and special guest Terri DeBoer in a Clean Comedy Show at the Wealthy Theatre, Wednesday, March 26. The event is billed as "Live From Wealthy Str…

1
Leading by Following: Ghita Zniber's Unique Approach to African Startup Investment with Kalys Ventures 42:24

2M ago42:24

42:24

In this enlightening conversation, Ghita Zniber, co-founder of Kalys Ventures, shares her unique journey from rugby player to venture capitalist. Discover her "first follower" philosophy reshaping African startup investment and how a childhood conversation with her father about values became the foundation for her business approach. Ghita reveals w…

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Previewing the Asian American Leadership Summit with Bing Goei of The West Michigan Asian American Association(03-01-25) 14:46

2M ago14:46

14:46

On this week's episode, host Phil Tower welcome Bing Goei, cofounder of the West Michigan, Asian American Association. Founded roughly 16 years ago, the West Michigan Asian American Association, Inc. is a Michigan nonprofit corporation that seeks to build a collaborative, active, and committed Asian American community in West Michigan with a focus …

1
The Rise and Betrayal of the Freedman's Bank. 59:42

2M ago59:42

59:42

Send us a text The Freedman's Bank, established in 1865, aimed to empower newly freed slaves through financial literacy and economic opportunity. However, mismanagement and exploitation led to its devastating collapse in 1874, robbing many of their hard-earned savings. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Professor Justene Hill Edwards, author of 'Th…

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Moy Fung: Embracing Radical Empathy in Entrepreneurship and Empowering Women to Overcome Business Barriers 1:04:42

2M ago1:04:42

1:04:42

What if embracing radical empathy could transform not just your life, but the lives of those around you? Join us as we explore this profound concept with the remarkable Moy Fong, an award-winning entrepreneur whose journey of leadership and empathy began at the young age of 19 when she became a mother. Moy shares her inspiring story of resilience, …

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Profiling the pioneering progressive African American women of Grand Rapids with Sophia Ward Brewer (02-22-25) 13:22

2M ago13:22

13:22

On this episode, host & WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower welcomes Sophia Ward Brewer, Serials and Collection Development Librarian at GRCC and Vice President of the Greater GR Women's History Council. Sophia recently gave a presentation at Grand Rapids Public Library titled Tracing the Steps | African American Women During the Progressive Era in Gra…

1
Micah Elechi: Bridging Opportunities for African Youth with AfriLink and Redefining Tech Innovation Through Courage and Vision 46:47

2M ago46:47

46:47

Visionary entrepreneur Micah Elechi takes us on a transformative journey from his early days as a graphic designer in Nigeria to becoming a leading force in tech innovation with Macklemore Solutions . Hear how Micah's determination to overcome employment challenges led him to create AfriLink, a groundbreaking platform empowering African youth by br…

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Building Deep Tech in Kenya: The Octavia Carbon Story with Martin Freimüller 44:38

2M ago44:38

44:38

From train driver's son in Austria to building Africa's pioneering Direct Air Capture company, Martin Freimüller shares his journey of building Octavia Carbon in Kenya. In this episode, we explore why Kenya is the world's best place for DAC, the reality of building deep tech with local talent, and the true tests of entrepreneurial conviction. Marti…

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How Dégagé Ministries is serving the homeless and hungry in West Michigan (02-15-25) 15:11

2M ago15:11

15:11

On this week's episode, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower speaks with Thelma Ensink, executive director of Dégagé Ministries. Dégagé Ministries, established in 1967, offers hope and opportunity to those facing homelessness and poverty in our community. Dégagé Ministries was started in the basement of the Salvation Army at 160 Fountain Street NE in 19…

1
The Plunder of Black America: How The Racial Wealth Gap Was Made. 1:00:25

2M ago1:00:25

1:00:25

Send us a text Why do some 3.5 million Black American families have zero or negative wealth? 💰 Jack "Calvin" Schermerhorn, Arizona State Professor of History and author of The Plunder of Black America will join Planet Wekeza to share his insights from "The Plunder of Black America: How The Racial Wealth Gap Was Made" ! 📚✨ Schermerhorn traces 400 ye…

1
Nicole Osbourne-James Creating Safe Spaces for Women in Comedy 54:47

3M ago54:47

54:47

Nicole Osbourne-James, a renowned free thinker and accidental stand-up comedian, reveals her fascinating journey from the spoken word poetry scene of the 1990s to the dynamic world of comedy. Unpacking how her evolution as a young mother propelled her into comedy's broader expressive realm, Nicole shares insights into the role of spoken word in act…

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How SECOM is empowering families to achieve their full potential (02-09-25) 13:21

3M ago13:21

13:21

On this week's episode, host Allison Donahue, program manager atThe Rapidian, speaks with Pablo Garcia, Executive Director, SECOM. SECOM is a key Resource Center that gives help and hope to their neighbors by empowering families to achieve their full potential through healthy living, education, and economic opportunities. SECOM offers a wide range …

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The Power of Storytelling in African Private Capital 29:38

3M ago29:38

29:38

How does storytelling shape the future of African privatecapital? In this episode, Bidemi Zakariyau Akande, Founder of LSF PR,and Yolande Tabo, Investor Relations Principal at Convergence Partners, break down the power of storytelling in investment and business. From building brand trust to attracting capital, they reveal how the right narrative ca…

1
Charlene Thomas: Crafting Compelling Young Adult Narratives and Navigating the Publishing World with Perseverance and Passion 56:20

3M ago56:20

56:20

Uncover the magic behind young adult fiction with acclaimed author Charlene Thomas on this episode of SpeakUP! International. From her childhood days of weaving tales in scribbled notebooks to becoming an award-winning writer, Charlene offers a heartfelt reading from her latest book, "Streetlight People." Her journey is a testament to the power of …

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Influencing African Tech from Dakar: Sabrine Chahrour's Journey in Venture Capital 32:12

3M ago32:12

32:12

What happens when a Lebanese-born, Paris-educated investment banker returns to Dakar and discovers her true calling in venture capital? In this deeply personal episode, Sabrine Chahrour, Investor at Partech Africa, takes us through her remarkable journey from Googling "what is venture capital" to becoming a key player in Africa's tech ecosystem. Bu…

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Dr. Asanee Brogan: Embracing Ancestral Wisdom and Decolonizing African Spirituality for Modern Life 1:04:13

3M ago1:04:13

1:04:13

Discover the profound world of African spirituality with our captivating guest, Dr. Asanee Brogan, as she embarks on a journey of cultural and spiritual transformation. Dr. Brogan, a spiritualist and life coach, shares how she shifted her focus from financial education for the African diaspora to embracing the guidance of her ancestors through trad…

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Cheryl Polk: Transforming Career Potentials with Authenticity, Mentorship, and Balance 48:53

3M ago48:53

48:53

Cheryl Polk, a holistic career coach from Nashville, Tennessee, joins us on SpeakUP! International, bringing her inspiring journey from corporate accountant to career coach and certified resume writer. Cheryl's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and personal growth, offering insights into how she helps professionals unlock their care…

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Kason Morris: Redefining Career Success and Navigating the Future of Work with Life-Work Synergy 1:03:17

3M ago1:03:17

1:03:17

What if you could craft a career that aligns seamlessly with your life’s mission and values? Join us in our conversation with Kason Morris, a trailblazer in the Future of Work Skills Strategy and the creative mind behind "Life Work Revolutionary." Kason challenges the conventional ladder of career success, urging a shift towards a dynamic lattice o…

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Exceptional performances! Previewing Circle Theatre's 2025 Season(02-02-25) 14:51

3M ago14:51

14:51

In this week's episode, WYCE station manager, Phil Tower welcomesLynne Brown Tepper, Executive and Artistic Director Circle Theatre. Lynne joined us for a preview of the upcoming exciting2025 Season at Circle Theatre. Circle Theatre is the only community theatre in the West Michigan area that specializes in summer theatre. The Theatre was founded i…

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Understanding Arbor Circle's Mental Health & Substance Abuse Treatment & Counseling Programs (01-25-25) 14:25

3M ago14:25

14:25

On this episode, we welcome Enid Gaddis, MA, - Director of Equity & Inclusion at Arbor Circle. Arbor Circle is one of West Michigan’s most comprehensive providers of mental health counseling, substance use treatment, and family services. Arbor Circle Staff collaborates with local resources to address the needs of our community, promote new ways of …

1
From Laughs to Tech Legacy: Jon Laster, Founder/CEO BLAPP 🚀 37:51

3M ago37:51

37:51

Send us a text Join us for an eye-opening chat with Jon Laster, who's doing something pretty incredible - bringing his comedy chops to the tech world. You'll hear how this Comedy Cellar host went from cracking jokes on stage to creating BLAPP, an app that's changing the game for Black-owned businesses. Jon opens up about building a tech company fro…

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Global Ambitions, Local Talent: On P1 Ventures' African Tech Mission 38:27

3M ago38:27

38:27

What does it take to build global tech companies from Africa? In this episode, Mikael (Mika) Hajjar, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at P1 Ventures, shares how his firm identifies exceptional founders in unexpected places. With US$50 million deployed across 34 companies, including Yassir, Raenest, and Nuitée, P1 Ventures combines data-driven insigh…

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Navigating the Challenges in African Healthcare: with Tobias Reiter (CEO, Viebeg) 33:27

3M ago33:27

33:27

In this episode of The Grinders Table, we take a journey into the transformative world of healthcare in Africa with our guest, Tobias, CEO of Viebeg. Tobias, originally from Vienna, Austria, has spent over seven years in East Africa, where he has witnessed firsthand the critical challenges faced by healthcare providers, particularly the lack of rel…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

African Tech Conversations Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen