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Sheryl Raphael Whitaker: Redefining Leadership Through Joy

US Business News Staff US Business News Staff on October 22, 2025

By: Treasure Tunnel

For decades, corporate leadership models have focused on productivity, efficiency, and performance—but at what cost? According to Sheryl Raphael Whitaker, MBA, executive coach, leadership strategist, and founder of EdenAnthony LLC, the missing ingredient in many leadership frameworks is joy.

Her debut book, and an Amazon bestseller, It Starts with Joy: The Inner Shift that Changes Everything—released September 18, 2025—introduces a bold new paradigm for leadership rooted in what she calls her Joy is My COO™ philosophy. The framework positions joy as a strategic operating system designed to help executives, teams, and organizations reclaim joy as a potentially powerful driver of culture, influence, and impact.

“Leadership starts with who you are, not just what you do,” Whitaker says. “When joy runs your operating system, you build trust, strengthen relationships, and lead in ways that can’t be shaken. Joy isn’t a luxury—it’s one of the sustainable advantage leaders have.”

From the C-Suite to the Heart of Leadership

Whitaker’s approach questions the long-held belief that success requires constant sacrifice. With more than 35 years of experience leading organizational transformation and executive development—including overseeing enterprise learning and talent development for more than 37,000 employees at USAA—she has seen firsthand how disconnection and burnout may erode performance and culture.

Her answer: shift the focus from control to connection, from pressure to purpose. Through her JoyShift™ method, Whitaker helps leaders make what she calls “the four identity shifts” that may restore clarity, authenticity, and more sustainable influence.

The book invites readers to explore what can happen when fear dominates leadership—and how joy can help reset the system. “When leaders operate from joy,” Whitaker explains, “they may not just manage people—they inspire them. They build organizations people want to be part of.”

A Framework for the Future of Work

Far from being a soft skill, Whitaker positions joy as a potential strategic advantage in the modern workplace. Her methodology has been shaped by her leadership work with global organizations, including State Farm, AIG, PURE Insurance, CarGurus, and USAA. These experiences underscored what she calls “the humanity gap” in leadership—where organizations focus on results at the expense of relationships.

“Aligning strategy with humanity isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s likely the smart thing to do,” she says. “Companies that respect the dignity of those they lead often create cultures where people thrive, stay longer, and perform better.”

Whitaker’s JoyShift programs are now being integrated into executive retreats, leadership accelerators, and organizational culture initiatives nationwide. Each experience helps leaders move from disconnection and overload to clarity, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Beyond the Boardroom

In addition to her role as CEO of EdenAnthony LLC, Whitaker serves as Executive Board Member and Director of Curation for TEDxSouthlake, a Growthspace Ambassador, a member of PeakSpan Capital’s Expert Community, and an Executive Champion for The-Climb.org.

Her work reflects a deep commitment to merging business strategy with human-centered leadership—a philosophy she’s lived throughout her career. Whether advising Fortune 100 and 500 leaders or emerging executives, she champions a model of success grounded in wholeness, purpose, and authenticity.

Whitaker’s academic credentials reinforce her authority in leadership and development. She holds a BA in Marketing from Pennsylvania State University and an MBA from Dowling College. Yet, it’s her life experience—both personal and professional—that shaped her conviction that joy isn’t just an emotion but a discipline.

A Movement in the Making

At just 70 pages, It Starts with Joy is concise by design—a leadership manual for busy executives who want transformation without overwhelm. Each chapter offers practical insights and real-world examples of leaders who shifted from fear to joy and saw measurable results in morale, retention, and organizational trust.

The book has already begun sparking a larger movement in leadership philosophy—one that challenges the outdated notion that joy is incompatible with ambition.

“Joy isn’t the opposite of drive,” Whitaker says. “It’s a potential fuel for it.”

It Starts with Joy: The Inner Shift that Changes Everything is now available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle.

For more information on Whitaker’s coaching and corporate leadership programs, visit EdenAnthonyEliteTalent.com.

“Twice Over A Man” by Orv Kimbrough: A Journey of Resilience, Identity, and Self-Discovery

US Business News Staff US Business News Staff on October 22, 2025

By: William Jones

In Twice Over A Man: A Fierce Memoir of an Orphan Boy Who Doggedly Determined a Finer Life, Orv Kimbrough invites readers on a deeply personal journey of resilience, struggle, and eventual self-realization. Kimbrough’s memoir isn’t just about overcoming adversity—it’s a vivid exploration of identity, purpose, and the unyielding pursuit of a life that strives to be lived on one’s own terms.

From the very first pages, Kimbrough offers readers a raw and honest look into the challenges he has faced, drawing from his own life experiences to illustrate the complexities of finding oneself in a world that often feels unforgiving. With a style that blends humor, vulnerability, and poignant reflection, Twice Over A Man stands as a testament to the power of persistence.

A Story of Persistence and Transformation

Kimbrough’s journey is marked by several pivotal moments that changed the trajectory of his life. As he reflects on his past, he acknowledges that much of his story revolves around the theme of not giving up, no matter how many times life knocked him down.

“I’ve always said, if you can’t get up after falling down, then you’re not really living,” Kimbrough shares. “The hard part isn’t the falling—it’s the getting back up. But once you do, it’s like something shifts inside you. You realize you can do anything.”

This philosophy is central to the book, as Kimbrough recounts how he battled through personal struggles, including issues of identity, relationships, and career, with an unwavering determination to keep moving forward. Whether dealing with difficult family dynamics or navigating the often-challenging world of work, Kimbrough’s ability to push through adversity is what ultimately defines him—and his memoir.

Redefining Identity: “I Had to Become Who I Was Meant to Be”

One of the compelling aspects of Twice Over A Man is Kimbrough’s exploration of identity. Throughout the book, he grapples with the question of who he truly is, shedding layers of external expectations to get closer to his authentic self.

“I spent so many years trying to fit into boxes that weren’t made for me,” Kimbrough explains. “There was always a disconnect between who I was and who I was told I should be. Writing this book, I had to confront all of that—embrace the parts of me I had tried to hide.”

Kimbrough’s reflections on his struggle with identity are deeply relatable, particularly for readers who have faced similar challenges in understanding themselves in the face of societal pressures. His story is not just one of personal growth, but of shedding expectations in order to discover who we really are, rather than who we are expected to be.

“Self-discovery isn’t a one-time thing. It’s a lifelong process,” he says. “You don’t just wake up one day and know who you are. You have to go through experiences that force you to ask tough questions, challenge your own beliefs, and ultimately make peace with the fact that you’re always evolving.”

The Power of Resilience: “It’s Never About What Happens, But What You Do With It”

"Twice Over A Man" by Orv Kimbrough: A Journey of Resilience, Identity, and Self-Discovery

Photo Courtesy: Orvin T. Kimbrough

Another theme that resonates strongly throughout the book is the idea of resilience. Kimbrough makes it clear that his success wasn’t born out of some magical formula but from his relentless determination to push through even the hardest moments.

“It’s never about what happens to you,” he says, his voice reflecting the wisdom of someone who has lived through hardship. “It’s about how you respond. Life will throw all sorts of curveballs, but your ability to adjust, to get back up, and to keep going—that’s where the real power lies.”

Throughout Twice Over A Man, Kimbrough reveals how the toughest times in his life were often the most transformative. From dealing with personal loss to overcoming professional setbacks, he shares how each setback became a stepping stone toward greater self-awareness and purpose.

“Those were the moments that defined me. Not the wins, but the losses. Because in those losses, I found my true strength,” he writes.

Humor, Heartache, and Humanity

While Twice Over A Man is undoubtedly a powerful story of overcoming adversity, it also contains moments of levity and humor, reflecting Kimbrough’s ability to find light even in dark times. His wit is sharp, and his ability to find humor in life’s most difficult situations is one of the book’s many endearing qualities.

“I think it’s important to laugh,” Kimbrough reflects. “If you can’t laugh at the absurdity of it all, you’re going to drive yourself crazy. Life doesn’t make sense half the time. But if you can find a way to laugh, you’ve already won.”

It’s this combination of humor and resilience that gives the memoir its unique charm. Kimbrough doesn’t just tell you about the challenges he’s faced—he brings you into them, letting you experience the ups and downs with him. The vulnerability he offers in his storytelling makes the book feel less like a distant narrative and more like an intimate conversation between friends.

A Memoir That Speaks to Us All

Ultimately, Twice Over A Man is a story about the universal human experience of striving to find meaning and purpose in a world that often feels chaotic. Kimbrough’s ability to relate his personal journey to broader themes of self-discovery, perseverance, and resilience makes his memoir not just a compelling read but a relatable one.

“I want people to understand that it’s okay not to have it all figured out,” Kimbrough says. “The point isn’t to have all the answers—it’s to keep asking the questions and to keep moving forward, even when you don’t know exactly where you’re going.”

His message is one of hope and inspiration, a reminder that no matter the obstacles we face, we all have the ability to rise, to change, and to redefine our futures on our own terms.

U.S. Entrepreneurship: The Viable Career Path for Modern Leaders

US Business News Staff 2 US Business News Staff 2 on October 22, 2025

Entrepreneurship in the U.S. has evolved from a risky pursuit to a respected career path for modern leaders. It’s no longer just about launching a product, it’s about building something meaningful, scalable, and aligned with personal values. For executives and decision-makers seeking autonomy, innovation, and long-term impact, entrepreneurship offers a dynamic alternative to traditional corporate roles.

The shift isn’t just cultural, it’s structural. Access to capital, digital infrastructure, and talent has made entrepreneurship more viable than ever. And while startup challenges still exist, they’re no longer deterrents, they’re milestones that shape better leaders.

Why Entrepreneurship Appeals to Today’s Leaders

Entrepreneurship resonates with modern leaders because it offers something traditional roles often lack: agency. In a startup environment, decisions aren’t filtered through layers of bureaucracy. Leaders can act on insight immediately, whether it’s launching a new product feature, shifting strategy, or responding to customer feedback in real time. That immediacy is powerful, it turns vision into velocity.

There’s also a growing appetite for autonomy. Many executives are stepping away from corporate structures not because they’re burned out, but because they want to build something on their own terms. Entrepreneurship allows them to shape culture, define values, and choose collaborators. It’s not just about control, it’s about alignment.

Consider the wave of former Fortune 500 leaders launching niche consultancies, SaaS platforms, or impact-driven ventures. They’re not chasing titles, they’re chasing relevance. Entrepreneurship gives them the freedom to apply their expertise in ways that feel timely and personal.

The appeal also lies in adaptability. Leaders who’ve spent years in static environments are drawn to the dynamic nature of startups. They can test ideas, learn from failure, and pivot without waiting for quarterly reviews. That flexibility is especially attractive in industries where innovation cycles are short and customer expectations shift rapidly.

Entrepreneurship also offers a direct connection to outcomes. In large organizations, success is often diluted across departments. In a startup, every decision matters. Leaders see the impact of their choices, whether it’s a spike in user engagement, a breakthrough partnership, or a product that finally clicks with the market.

And then there’s purpose. Many modern leaders are motivated by more than profit. They want to solve problems, challenge norms, and contribute to something meaningful. Entrepreneurship provides a platform for that kind of impact. Whether it’s building inclusive hiring practices, developing sustainable products, or creating tools for underserved communities, founders have the freedom to lead with intention.

Navigating the Realities of Startup Challenges

Of course, entrepreneurship isn’t without its hurdles. Startup challenges are real, and they test everything from strategy to stamina. But for U.S. entrepreneurs, these challenges are part of the learning curve, not roadblocks.

Early-stage founders often face issues around funding, hiring, and product-market fit. These aren’t signs of failure, they’re signals that refinement is needed. The ability to respond to these signals with agility is what separates successful entrepreneurs from stalled ones.

Resources like this guide to overcoming startup challenges offer practical insights into navigating these early obstacles. From securing capital to building resilience, the path is clearer than it’s ever been.

Entrepreneurs who embrace these challenges as part of the process tend to build stronger, more sustainable businesses. They learn to adapt, delegate, and stay focused on long-term goals, even when short-term setbacks arise.

Entrepreneurship as a Leadership Development Engine

Entrepreneurship doesn’t just build companies, it builds leaders. The experience of launching, scaling, and sustaining a business forces individuals to develop skills that traditional roles may not demand.

Founders learn to manage uncertainty, communicate vision, and lead diverse teams. They become experts in prioritization, negotiation, and strategic thinking. These skills aren’t just useful in startups, they’re transferable across industries and roles.

Entrepreneurship also teaches emotional intelligence. Leaders must navigate investor relationships, customer feedback, and team dynamics, all while staying grounded. That kind of growth is hard to replicate in more structured environments.

Many executives who transition into entrepreneurship find that their leadership style evolves. They become more empathetic, more decisive, and more adaptable. The startup environment accelerates personal development in ways that traditional roles often can’t.

Building High-Potential Teams That Drive Growth

No entrepreneur succeeds alone. Building high-potential teams is one of the most critical aspects of entrepreneurship. The right team can turn a good idea into a great company. The wrong team can stall progress and drain resources.

Entrepreneurs must learn to hire for fit, not just skill. That means identifying individuals who align with the company’s mission, thrive in ambiguity, and bring complementary strengths. It also means creating roles that evolve with the business.

U.S. Entrepreneurship The Viable Career Path for Modern Leaders

Photo Credit: Unsplash.com

This approach is explored in this article on building high-potential teams, which emphasizes strategic hiring and role clarity. When team members feel ownership and autonomy, they’re more likely to stay engaged, and that engagement drives results.

Founders should also invest in team development. Training, mentorship, and clear communication help teams stay aligned and motivated. A strong team culture becomes a competitive advantage, especially in fast-moving industries.

Entrepreneurship and the Future of Work

U.S. entrepreneurship is shaping the future of work. As remote models, gig platforms, and digital tools become mainstream, the barriers to entry are lower, and the possibilities are broader.

Modern leaders are using entrepreneurship to build flexible, distributed companies that prioritize outcomes over hours. They’re leveraging technology to reach global markets, automate operations, and scale efficiently.

This shift is especially relevant for professionals who want to design their own careers. Entrepreneurship offers the freedom to choose projects, partners, and priorities. It’s a way to align work with life, not the other way around.

It also opens doors for underrepresented founders. With fewer gatekeepers and more access to resources, entrepreneurship is becoming a more inclusive path. Diverse perspectives are driving innovation, and reshaping industries from the inside out.

Why Now Is the Time to Embrace Entrepreneurship

The timing has never been better. Economic shifts, technological advances, and cultural changes have created a landscape where entrepreneurship is not just viable, it’s strategic.

U.S. entrepreneurs have access to funding, mentorship, and platforms that didn’t exist a decade ago. They can build lean, agile companies with global reach. And they can do it on their own terms.

For modern leaders seeking impact, autonomy, and growth, entrepreneurship offers a career path that’s both challenging and rewarding. It’s not just about starting a business, it’s about starting a movement, shaping a culture, and leading with purpose.

The Future of Africa’s Startups: Innovation, Capital, Growth

US Business News Staff US Business News Staff on October 22, 2025

By: Folajomi Adegbulugbe

The startup ecosystem in Africa is rising at an increasingly alarming rate. This can be attributed to the remarkable productivity of diverse young and skilled business owners across the continent. These entrepreneurs are consistently leveraging technology to solve everyday problems such as mobile banking, digital health services, and more for millions.

And today, several popular companies have proven the testament that Africa has what it takes to create billion-dollar businesses. Take for instance, Flutterwave, and Paystack – companies making waves in the financial sector in Africa. This is why for persistent and consistent growth in the startup ecosystem to happen, we have to pave the way for more local investments. Additionally, we also need to have committed startup incubators to keep supporting the next generation of innovators.

In other parts of the world, several startups focus on convenience, unlike Africa, where startups are usually focused on solving critical issues. These issues include agriculture, financial inclusion, and healthcare. This is why there are various mobile money platforms in Africa today. Take, for instance, M-Pesa. M-Pesa has not only revolutionized the banking industry but has also given millions access to financial services without needing to have a traditional bank account. Additionally, Agritech startups like Thrive Agric in Africa today are helping farmers to improve their productivity by utilizing better data and digital tools, while the e-commerce platforms are also connected to small businesses so that their customers beyond their local communities can benefit from it too.

This problem-solving approach is the major reason Africa’s startup ecosystem is growing so fast. The great part is that African entrepreneurs are not just building businesses, they are evolving the face of industries and transforming lives positively.

Even global investors have taken notice of the booming ecosystem on the continent and are pouring their billions into these startups. Technically, most of this money comes from outside Africa, which can create a challenge, especially when these international investors pull back, perhaps as a result of global economic shifts. When this happens, many startups might find it hard to stay afloat.

To ensure the existence of long-term growth in Africa, the continent will need more local investors. This is a great investment opportunity for wealthy individuals, banks, or pension funds. Governments also have a role to play by offering tax breaks and policies that can encourage local funding.

The efforts of incubators and accelerators in Africa’s startup ecosystem cannot be undermined as they are crucial in turning simple, great ideas into successful organizations. They are ready to provide mentorship, funding, and office space to help startups grow. Additionally, they help these startups dodge common pitfalls and teach them how to tackle challenges such as policy regulations and market expansion.

One example that stands out is “The Hive Incubator.” As an accelerator, it helps early-stage businesses refine their ideas to attract investors and, ultimately, scale up. Other similar hubs, such as MEST Africa, CcHub, and Startupbootcamp Africa, are creating environments where entrepreneurs can learn, work together, and get the support they need.

I believe that for the startup ecosystem to keep thriving in Africa, the following key things need to happen: We need more African investors to back our homegrown businesses. This will ensure that the ecosystem remains sustainable even if global funding slows down or ceases. Startups must aspire to scale beyond their home countries, tap into Africa’s vast market potential, and, if possible, plan to expand globally. Governments should focus more on education and training to equip young Africans with the skills they require to run and grow successful ventures.

Africa is on the edge of producing more billion-dollar companies, and I believe that with the right support, the startup ecosystem of the continent will not only survive but will also compete on the global stage.

About the Author

Folajomi Adegbulugbe is an accomplished entrepreneur and business leader with a proven track record of building and scaling ventures across various industries. As Director of Alles Charis Gas Limited, he grew the company to over 250 employees and 12 LPG retail outlets nationwide. He co-founded Pristin Capital, launched successful startups like Jo’s Buffet and Gasify, and now leads The Hive Incubator, supporting startups in Akure. Armed with dual Master’s degrees in International Business and Finance and currently pursuing an MBA at Imperial College London, Folajomi brings strategic insight and innovative thinking to business, investment, and mentorship. Passionate about teaching and collaboration, he is dedicated to helping others unlock their potential and drive meaningful impact.

For more information, check out their LinkedIn profile and Instagram.

Building High-Potential Teams: Key Tactics for U.S. Entrepreneurs

US Business News Staff 2 US Business News Staff 2 on October 22, 2025

High-potential teams are the backbone of every successful business. For U.S. entrepreneurs navigating competitive markets, assembling the right group of people isn’t just a hiring decision, it’s a strategic move. These teams don’t just execute, they innovate, adapt, and elevate the entire organization.

In today’s business climate, where agility and alignment matter more than ever, building high-potential teams requires more than gut instinct. It demands clarity, structure, and a deep understanding of what drives performance.

Start With Strategic Fit, Not Just Skill

Hiring for skill alone is no longer enough. Entrepreneurs who build high-potential teams understand that alignment with company values, mission, and long-term goals is just as critical. A technically gifted employee who doesn’t mesh with the team’s culture can slow momentum and create friction.

That’s why many founders are prioritizing optimal employee fit during the selection process. Tools that assess behavioral traits, communication styles, and problem-solving approaches are becoming standard in early-stage hiring. As highlighted in this guide to selecting the right team, understanding how someone works, not just what they know, can make or break team chemistry.

This approach also helps avoid costly turnover. When employees feel aligned with the company’s mission and values, they’re more likely to stay engaged and committed. That engagement translates into better collaboration, faster execution, and stronger results.

Define Roles With Precision and Purpose

High-potential teams thrive when every member knows their lane. That doesn’t mean rigid job descriptions, it means clarity. Entrepreneurs should define roles based on outcomes, not just tasks. What does success look like in this role? How does it support the broader mission?

This kind of precision helps avoid overlap, miscommunication, and burnout. It also empowers team members to take ownership of their contributions. When people understand how their work fits into the bigger picture, they’re more likely to stay engaged and proactive.

In growth-stage companies, where roles evolve quickly, revisiting these definitions regularly is key. It’s not about micromanaging, it’s about keeping the team aligned as the business scales. Clear role definition also supports accountability, making it easier to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

Build Around Strengths, Not Just Gaps

Traditional hiring often focuses on filling gaps. But entrepreneurs building high-potential teams think differently. They build around strengths. That means identifying what the team already does well and doubling down on it.

If the team excels at product development but struggles with visibility, the solution isn’t just hiring a marketer, it’s building a strong marketing team that complements existing strengths and expands reach. As discussed in this article on marketing team impact, strategic marketing hires can unlock growth by amplifying what the company already does best.

This approach also boosts morale. People want to work in environments where their strengths are recognized and leveraged, not just patched into weak spots. It encourages collaboration, creativity, and a sense of shared purpose.

Entrepreneurs should also consider cross-functional strengths. A developer with a knack for storytelling or a finance lead who understands customer psychology can bring unexpected value to the team. High-potential teams often emerge from these intersections.

Foster Ownership Through Autonomy

High-potential teams don’t wait for instructions, they take initiative. That kind of ownership doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built through autonomy, trust, and clear expectations.

Entrepreneurs should create systems that allow team members to make decisions, experiment, and learn from outcomes. That doesn’t mean chaos, it means structured freedom. When people feel trusted, they’re more likely to invest emotionally in the company’s success.

This is especially important in remote or hybrid environments, where micromanagement is both impractical and counterproductive. Autonomy becomes a signal of respect, and respect fuels performance.

Ownership also supports innovation. When team members feel empowered to test ideas and challenge assumptions, they’re more likely to uncover new opportunities. That mindset is essential in fast-moving industries where agility is a competitive advantage.

Invest in Communication That Drives Results

Communication is the engine of every high-potential team. But not all communication is created equal. Entrepreneurs should focus on systems that drive clarity, feedback, and alignment, not just chatter.

Building High-Potential Teams: Key Tactics for U.S. Entrepreneurs

Photo Credit: Unsplash.com

That means regular check-ins, transparent goal-setting, and shared tools for tracking progress. It also means creating space for honest conversations about what’s working and what’s not.

In fast-moving startups, communication can easily become reactive. But high-potential teams prioritize proactive dialogue. They don’t just talk, they solve, iterate, and move forward together.

Entrepreneurs should also encourage cross-team communication. When marketing understands engineering, and operations understands sales, the business becomes more cohesive. That cohesion supports faster decision-making and better outcomes.

Recognize, Reward, and Retain

Retention is the final test of a high-potential team. If people leave as soon as they grow, the system isn’t working. Entrepreneurs should build recognition into the fabric of the company, not just as a perk, but as a strategy.

That includes celebrating wins, spotlighting contributions, and offering growth opportunities. Recognition doesn’t have to be expensive, it has to be meaningful. A shoutout in a team meeting, a personalized note, or a chance to lead a new project can go a long way.

Retention also depends on development. High-potential teams want to grow. Entrepreneurs who invest in training, mentorship, and career paths are more likely to keep top performers engaged and loyal.

It’s also worth noting that retention isn’t just about keeping people, it’s about keeping momentum. When high-potential teams stay intact, they build trust, rhythm, and institutional knowledge. That continuity supports long-term success.

Jesse Amamgbu on Building Resilient Tech in Africa: How DevOps Cloud Drives Growth

US Business News Staff US Business News Staff on October 22, 2025

By: Jesse Amamgbu

Digitalization in Africa has brought about a positive transformation and has the potential to improve millions of lives. This is largely due to the technology-driven innovations from various evolving industries that have contributed significantly to the educational, healthcare, and financial sectors. However, this digital revolution could be disrupted by certain infrastructural challenges ranging from power supply to cybersecurity threats.

This is why there must be a strong, adaptable tech ecosystem that’s capable of sustaining this digital growth by adopting modern engineering practices that can potentially facilitate efficiency, scalability, and security. This is where DevOps and cloud engineering come into the picture. They are seen as the next big tech revolution to look out for in Africa.

These technologies have the potential to enable operational resilience for African businesses and could lay the foundation for a more scalable and robust digital economy on the continent.

I believe that as cloud providers’ presence continues to grow in Africa, more organizations will likely embrace DevOps methodologies to streamline their operations.

The ecosystem of Africa’s technology shouldn’t continue to rely on outdated development and operational models, as this may limit its growth. DevOps integrates cultural practices, philosophies, and tools that can help African businesses deliver applications and services at high velocity to a wide range of users. DevOps plays a significant role in the elimination of bottlenecks that could slow down innovation, such as:

  • Building security into every stage of development
  • Improving system reliability
  • Enabling faster software deployment.

In Africa, where there are tech infrastructure and connectivity problems, any tech startups that adopt DevOps will likely drive technological progress but will also be better equipped to scale, adapt, and provide innovative solutions. Nigerian fintech giant Flutterwave uses DevOps practices to automate security testing and deployment pipelines, enabling it to securely process millions of transactions daily across 30+ African countries despite intermittent connectivity, which helps ensure seamless payment solutions for SMEs and gig workers.

In simple terms, cloud computing or engineering has to do with the provision of computing resources such as databases, storage, servers, networking, and software on the internet. With this, users are allowed to access these resources without the need for physical infrastructure.

Interestingly, popular cloud providers are gradually investing heavily in African data centers such as AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud. Rwanda’s Zipline, a medical drone delivery startup, leverages Google Cloud’s infrastructure in South Africa to optimize flight routes and store real-time health data, enabling it to deliver blood and vaccines to millions of people in remote areas across Ghana, Kenya, and Nigeria, showcasing how cloud engineering could help bridge infrastructure gaps. However, several organizations in Africa are still reluctant to embrace cloud computing due to concerns surrounding security and regulatory issues. But the truth is that for Africa to remain competitive globally in the tech world, businesses may need to let go of outdated systems and carefully consider embracing cloud engineering tech for viable digital growth.

Various challenges may still hinder DevOps and cloud engineering from being fully implemented in Africa. These include:

  • Lack of skilled professionals and engineers
  • Regulatory uncertainties
  • Unstable infrastructure
  • Poor internet connectivity

What you must understand is that they are simply challenges, but not roadblocks. Thankfully, some tech companies have recognized these obstacles and have started leveraging the benefits of these technologies. This is not the time for African tech companies to hesitate, but rather to explore the advantages of training programs, government incentives, and local data centers to be a part of the next big digital revolution in Africa. With a unified effort and strategic investment in modern technologies, Africa could be well-positioned to lead the next wave of global digital transformation.

About the Author

Jesse Amamgbu is a DevOps and Data Science specialist with over five years of experience solving complex technical challenges. At Dojah, he architects resilient cloud infrastructures while contributing to open-source projects. With expertise spanning Kubernetes, machine learning pipelines, and scalable solutions, Jesse bridges the gap between infrastructure and analytics to deliver real business value.

For more information, check out their LinkedIn profile.