How Dr. Ssekakubo is shaping Cente-Tech into a market-disrupting in-house tech firm with eyes on the open market too Dr. Grace Ssekakubo was in 2021 tapped, to lead Centenary Technology Services Ltd (Cente-Tech), the technology services arm of the Centenary Group. A Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) and Master of Computer Science graduate from Makerere University, Kampala, he also holds a PhD in Computer Science from the University of Cape Town in South Africa. He has over 15 years of experience in ICT project management; analysis, design and implementation of IT Systems as well as the leadership of ICT teams, and the development and implementation of ICT user and support policies. He is also well-versed in planning and strategising for the integration of ICT into service delivery to achieve enhanced efficiency and effectiveness. He is also a member of the Project Management Institute (PMI).

In his role as CEO of Centenary Technology Services, he spearheads the company’s mission to “develop innovations that are pivotal and relevant, propelling entities toward expansive growth and enhanced operational excellence.” He also drives the subsidiary’s mission to achieve comprehensive digitisation across the Group’s corporate entities.

To deliver this mission, Dr. Ssekakubo has assembled an A-team of like-minded technology experts and enthusiasts with over 90 combined years of experience. 

Peter Kahiigi, the CTO is a digital transformation expert with over 20 years of experience in the delivery of complex, secure, successful IT projects and enterprise risk management. He holds a  Masters and Bachelors in Computer Science, both from Makerere University. He is a Certified Information Security Manager (ISACA) and a  Certified Information Systems Security Professional, amongst many other qualifications.  

Mr. Osbert Osamai, the Head, ICT Advisory, Research & Strategy, Is a Senior Systems Analyst and Software Engineering Manager with over 13 years of experience in IT, Certified IT auditor and Enterprise Architect. He holds an  MSc. Data Communication and Software Engineering from Makerere University and a Bachelors from Kyambogo University. He brings to the game, key skills in Digital Transformation, Cybersecurity, AI and Machine learning, e-Government, Enterprise Architecture, ICT Strategy and Policy, IT Consulting, IT Security Audit, Data Science, Software Engineering, Systems Analysis, SCRUM Master, Prince 2, Data and Application Integration and Leading Engineering teams.

Heading the Innovation and Digital Services Division, is Ms. Rowena Turinawe. She is a COBIT5 & ITIL certified and a Project Management Professional (PMP) as well as a PROSCI Change Management Practitioner. She holds a  Master of Science in Information Systems and Change Management from the University of Manchester in the UK amongst other key qualifications. 

Steven Kirenga, heads the Product & Business Development & Customer Experience Unit. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree and is a Certified in Product and Solutions Design professional. He is also a Certified in Integrated Marketing and Communications expert.

A dedicated and results-driven solutions design and communications professional, with an interesting mix of extensive experience in Telecommunications, ICT services, innovations and corporate communications. He has over fifteen (15) years of experience with a background in product & solution design, strategy creation & execution, strategic communications management, consumer & business/enterprise marketing experience, customer experience management, corporate communications, public relations, digital and media development.

Dr. Ssekakubo is a confessed technology enthusiast, “with a profound appreciation for technology’s transformative potential” who envisages a future where every facet of the Centenary Group is interconnected and streamlined through cutting-edge technological solutions, ensuring agility, responsiveness, and innovation in a rapidly evolving business environment.”

“I harbour a deep appreciation for technology as a pivotal equaliser, capable of bridging the divide between the ‘haves and have-nots’. I am driven by the conviction that technology can democratise access to opportunities and resources, thereby fostering equitable progress and development across diverse geographical and socio-economic spectrums,” he says, of his passion for technology. 

He sat down with the CEO East Africa Magazine’s Muhereza Kyamutetera and spoke about Cente-Tech’s progress thus far and the tech firm’s purpose as a catalyst for transformative change,  not just within the Centenary Group, but throughout the Eastern and Southern Africa region as well. 

Tell us about Centenary Technology Services Ltd (Cente-Tech) and how it fits within the larger Centenary Group purpose. How have you been able to live up to and deliver to that purpose to date? 

Cente-Tech plays a unique and crucial role in the Centenary Group ecosystem. We are at the forefront of integrating advanced technological solutions into service delivery models, aiming to optimise efficiency and enhance effectiveness across all organisational functions and processes. Our strategic initiatives focus on the seamless infusion of technology to elevate operational standards, enrich customer experiences, and drive organisational success. In other words, we always look to leveraging technology to unlock unprecedented possibilities and solutions, particularly in regions where disparities are most pronounced.

Centenary Technology Services serves Centenary Bank Uganda, Centenary Bank Malawi and Centenary Foundation. As Centenary Group ventures into the insurance business, fund management and investment, and property development, Centenary Technology Services will continue to use technology to power the operations of these new subsidiaries. As the Group expands its banking services across the region, Cente-Tech will be an anchor in ensuring an immediate impact in the region. 

Cente-Tech is also driving the digital transformation of the  Centenary Group’s stakeholder ecosystem which also includes parishes,  schools, hospitals & institutions. 

In the public and private sectors, we are already working with several partners such as MTN Foundation, the Ministry of ICT & National Guidance in Uganda, Sun-Bird AI, Rocket Health, Innovation Village, MOTIV, Master Card, Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology, UNCDF, to mention but a few.  

What makes Cente-Tech stand out in a post-Covid technology captive Uganda/EAC? 

The Cente-Tech team brings a wealth of over ninety (90) combined years of experience and achievements in areas such as digital transformation, IT Service Management, Cyber Security, IT Project Management, strategy development, IT Governance, Development of software solutions, ICT Advisory, Quality Assurance, Enterprise Architecture among other skills across various business solutions in local, regional, and international spheres. 

Cente-Tech presents the ability to address the unique challenges faced by every industry or business and accurately meets the needs of the various markets, both local and international. 

What are the key focus areas that you have chosen to tend to and want to be known for?

• Innovation and Digital Services Division: Our dedicated Innovation & Digital Services Division is centred on the strategic re-engineering of business processes, automation enhancement, and the digitisation of critical data assets. We are not just limited to enhancing our internal functionalities; we extend our digital service offerings to both our Group’s subsidiary enterprises and the broader public.
• IT Managed Services Division: Our Strategic IT Managed Services Division is dedicated to providing superior IT solutions and services to both the Group and its affiliated subsidiaries. In today’s dynamic technological landscape, managed services present a cost-efficient solution, facilitating the swift adoption of relevant technologies. This proactive approach ensures our Organization remains at the forefront, enhancing market agility and maintaining a competitive stance within our industry. By leveraging outsourced IT capabilities, the Group’s entities can concentrate on pivotal projects and strategic initiatives that fortify their competitive edge. Our managed services portfolio guarantees efficiency, cost savings, and risk mitigation. We deliver a holistic, 24/7 integrated service, ensuring continuous support and value optimisation for the Group and its subsidiaries

• ICT Advisory & Consultancy Services Division: Our team offers comprehensive ICT advisory services to both the Group’s subsidiaries and the wider public. Our primary commitment is to ensure that the ICT solutions adopted by the Group’s subsidiaries are not only optimized but also drive tangible business benefits for companies and offer substantial commercial returns for shareholders.

You have entered into quite a capital-intensive as well as very competitive space. What would you say is your competitive edge? Which are some of the areas that you think you can play well and play big?

Indeed, the landscape we operate in is both highly competitive and capital-intensive, challenging us to consistently innovate and optimise our strategies. Our competitive edge is multifaceted, defined by our commitment to unparalleled quality, innovation, and customer-centric solutions. 

• Passionate Advocacy for Equality Through Technology: A fundamental pillar of our strategy is our passionate advocacy for equality through technology. We deeply believe in leveraging technology as a transformative tool to bridge disparities and create inclusive solutions that empower diverse communities. By democratising access to technology, we are enabling equal opportunities and fostering social and economic development, making a meaningful impact on lives.
• Innovation: Our commitment to research and development enables us to continuously introduce groundbreaking solutions that set industry standards and redefine customer experiences. Our technological prowess allows us to stay ahead of the curve, anticipating 
• Strategic Partnerships and Alliances: We’ve established robust partnerships and alliances with key industry players and stakeholders. These collaborations not only augment our service and product offerings but also enhance our market reach and operational capabilities.
• Agile and Scalable Solutions: Our solutions are designed to be both agile and scalable, allowing us to adapt to evolving market dynamics and customer preferences quickly and efficiently. This agility enables us to seize new opportunities and navigate challenges proactively.
• Deep Industry Insight and Expertise: Our team’s extensive knowledge and expertise in the industry empower us to identify untapped opportunities and areas where we can deliver exceptional value. Our deep industry insight informs our strategic decisions and enables us to identify niches where we can play well and play big.

Our blend of innovation, customer-centricity, strategic collaborations, agility, and industry expertise forms our competitive moat, enabling us to differentiate ourselves and stay resilient in this competitive and capital-intensive environment. We are enthusiastic about leveraging our strengths to explore untapped potentials, create unparalleled value, and lead advancements in our chosen areas.