From Kampala to Nairobi: Cavendish Lecturer Maganda Honored as Africa’s Tech and Innovation Champion as Africa’s Tech and Innovation Champion

The air was electric at Cavendish University Uganda’s Siyani Campus on April 25th, 2025, as students, staff, and leadership came together to celebrate one of their own—Maganda Evans Tabingwa—whose journey from lecturer to continental innovator has inspired many.

Just days before, Maganda had stood proudly in Nairobi, Kenya, where he received the prestigious Tech and Innovation Person of the Year Award from Scholar Media Africa. A double achiever, Maganda wears many hats: not only is he a respected academic at Cavendish, but also the dynamic CEO of Tanya Innovations Africa, a company driving creative solutions for African challenges.

Back home in Kampala, the celebration was heartfelt and full of pride. Leading the occasion were Cavendish Vice Chancellor Dr. Olive Sabiiti and Executive Director David Mutabanura, joined by enthusiastic staff members who showed up in full support of their colleague's incredible feat.

In a moving speech, Maganda reflected on the pillars behind his success. He paid tribute to the university's leadership—both past and present—specifically applauding former Vice Chancellor Prof. John Francis Mugisha and current Vice Chancellor Dr. Olive Sabiiti for their impactful leadership. He described their guidance as instrumental in shaping not only his journey but also the growth and prestige of Cavendish University in Africa’s education landscape.

Maganda was equally generous in his praise for fellow lecturers and university staff, acknowledging their camaraderie and encouragement over the years.

“This award isn’t just for me,” he said passionately. “It’s a reminder that we all have a role to play in transforming Africa. Innovation isn’t a government-only mission—it’s a collective responsibility. We must act, create, and contribute if we want to see the Africa we dream of.”

His message rang loud and clear: the future of Africa lies in homegrown solutions, and it starts with individuals daring to lead change.