Unathi Mtya, Chairperson of the UNISA Graduate School of Business Leadership (SBL) Advisory Board and Group Chief Information & Digital Officer at African Bank, stands as a beacon of excellence and innovation in Africa’s digital and financial technology sectors. Recognized as one of the 100 Reputable Women of African Descent 2025, her name is synonymous with transformative leadership, digital empowerment, and groundbreaking advancements in financial inclusion.
With a career spanning more than 25 years, Unathi Mtya has carved a niche for herself as a formidable technology strategist and digital transformation expert. Her work has consistently focused on leveraging innovation to close the gap in financial and digital access, especially for underserved communities across the continent. As a visionary leader, she has played a pivotal role in shaping Africa’s digital economy through executive roles at leading institutions.
Before joining African Bank, Unathi held several prominent positions, including Chief Technology Officer at Grindrod Bank, Chief Information Officer at the Parliament of South Africa, and CIO at the State Information Technology Agency (SITA). Her early career began at First National Bank, followed by impactful roles at Business Connexion (BCX) and S1 Services. Each chapter of her professional journey contributed to her reputation as a leader in enterprise technology strategy, IT governance, and digital infrastructure implementation.
Her academic accomplishments mirror her professional success. Unathi holds a Master of Science in Technology Management from Columbia University in New York, a BSc in Computer Science and Geographic Information Systems from the University of Fort Hare, and a Professional Certificate in CIO Practice from Wits University. She is currently pursuing an Executive Master in Change at INSEAD Business School, further deepening her capacity for change leadership in complex environments.
Unathi Mtya’s impact is recognized both locally and globally. She has received numerous accolades, including the Dean’s Excellence Award from Columbia University, and has been named to the Global CIO 100 list for three consecutive years (2022, 2023, and 2024). She was awarded the title of Most Influential African Woman Banker of the Year in the Digital Transformation category, recognized as the Digital Personality of the Year at the Finnovex South Africa Summit, and honored with the Excellence in Digital Leadership Award at the DigiBank Summit.
A respected thought leader, Unathi is a regular speaker at international conferences and summits. Her keynote addresses, including at the AfricaCom Summit, have explored the continent’s unique opportunities in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. She is a member of the Forbes Technology Council and serves on the board of PenPlusBytes, where she contributes her strategic insight to advance Africa’s digital future.
In 2025, she was appointed Chairperson of the UNISA Graduate School of Business Leadership Advisory Board, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s 60th anniversary. Her appointment underscores her commitment to fostering innovation in business education and shaping the next generation of tech-savvy African leaders.
Outside the boardroom, Unathi is a passionate marathon runner, having completed elite races in global cities such as New York, Paris, London, Berlin, Prague, Athens, Barcelona, and even the Great Wall of China. Her athletic discipline reflects her professional ethos—resilience, endurance, and an unwavering drive for excellence.
Unathi Mtya’s influence transcends the boardroom and the tech lab. Her legacy is one of innovation, empowerment, and unwavering dedication to using technology as a force for good. As one of the 100 Reputable Women of African Descent 2025, she continues to inspire generations, break glass ceilings, and redefine what’s possible for Africa’s digital future.
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