Unathi Mtya, a distinguished technology leader and Group Chief Information & Digital Officer at African Bank, has been honored as one of the 100 Reputable Women of African Descent for 2025. With over 25 years of transformative impact in digital transformation, financial technology, and innovation, Unathi continues to shape the future of technology and financial inclusion across Africa.
As the driving force behind African Bank’s digital and information strategy, Unathi is redefining how technology is used to enhance financial services and ensure equitable access to digital resources. Her leadership has been instrumental in advancing digital transformation initiatives that address systemic challenges and create inclusive opportunities within the African banking sector.
Unathi’s career trajectory includes groundbreaking leadership roles such as Chief Technology Officer at Grindrod Bank, Chief Information Officer at the Parliament of South Africa, and Chief Information Officer at the State Information Technology Agency (SITA). She began her career at First National Bank, subsequently making impactful contributions to Business Connexion (BCX) and S1 Services, where she specialized in enterprise technology strategy and large-scale digital infrastructure projects.
Her academic achievements complement her professional success. Unathi holds a Master of Science in Technology Management from Columbia University in New York, a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Geographic Information Systems from the University of Fort Hare, and a Professional Certificate in CIO Practice from Wits University. Currently, she is pursuing an Executive Master in Change at INSEAD Business School, demonstrating her commitment to continuous learning and innovation.
Unathi’s contributions to the industry have been widely recognized. She has received the Dean’s Excellence Award from Columbia University, been named among the Global CIO 100 in 2022, 2023, and 2024, and earned titles such as Most Influential African Woman Banker of the Year in the Digital Transformation category. In addition, she was honored as Digital Personality of the Year at the Finnovex South Africa Summit and received the Excellence in Digital Leadership Award at the DigiBank Summit.
In 2025, Unathi was appointed Chairperson of the UNISA Graduate School of Business Leadership (SBL) Advisory Board, marking the institution’s 60th anniversary. This role underscores her commitment to shaping the future of technology and business education in Africa.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Unathi is a passionate advocate for thought leadership and mentorship. She is a member of the Forbes Technology Council and serves on the board of PenPlusBytes, contributing her expertise to the evolution of digital strategy across Africa. As a sought-after speaker, she has delivered keynote addresses at global events such as the AfricaCom Summit, where she discussed Africa’s unique role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution and its potential to drive global digital transformation.
Unathi’s dedication extends beyond boardrooms and conferences. She is an accomplished marathon runner, having participated in prestigious races like the New York, Paris, London, Prague, Barcelona, Great Wall of China, Athens, and Berlin marathons. Her passion for endurance sports reflects her resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Unathi Mtya’s legacy as a visionary leader and digital innovator is a beacon of inspiration for women across Africa and beyond. Her recognition as one of the 100 Reputable Women of African Descent for 2025 celebrates her extraordinary achievements in advancing technology, financial inclusion, and leadership, solidifying her place as one of the continent’s most influential changemakers.
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