Over the years, the role of the Chief Information Officer has evolved from a purely technical focus to a more strategic position within organizations aiming to foster innovation. In today’s landscape, where digital transformation is more about people than platforms, CIOs must go beyond the traditional bounds of technology management and take on broader leadership responsibilities
During a recent session of the CIO Leadership Programme, Anthony Gacanja, Director of Networks at Safaricom, delivered a presentation on navigating politics, exercising influence, and practicing ethical leadership to drive meaningful transformation. The following were the key takeaways from his session:
Caption: Anthony Gacanja, Director of Networks, Safaricom
- What Kind of Power do CIOs Have?
Leadership requires CIOs to understand what different types of powers they have and how they can utilize them to navigate. They can draw influence from several key sources: expert power, based on their deep technical knowledge; informational power, from exclusive access to critical data; and transformational power, their ability to inspire and lead change. Together, these strengths enable CIOs to drive innovation and position themselves as key agents of organizational transformation.
- Navigating the Political Landscape
In many corporate environments, “politics” gets a bad reputation. But Gacanja reframed this notion: strategic influence isn’t manipulation, it’s leadership. He encouraged participants to embrace the political landscape not as a game to be played, but as a network of relationships to be nurtured. Understanding who the key stakeholders are, what they care about, and how to communicate with them is essential to getting things done.
- Your Integrity is What Gives Your Career longevity
One of the most powerful yet understated tools in a leadership toolkit is integrity. It’s not loud or attention-seeking, but over time, it becomes the foundation of trust, credibility, and respect. In environments where formal authority isn’t always guaranteed, integrity becomes the compass that guides influence.
- Influence Without Authority
One of the most resonant parts of the session was focused on how to lead without formal power. Gacanja emphasized the importance of empathy, active listening, and framing ideas with shared goals in mind. Quoting Nelson Mandela, he reminded the room, “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.”
This shift from being right to being effective requires CIOs to reframe conversations. Instead of saying “we’ve already tried that,” ask, “what did we learn, and how can we build on it?” Instead of “that’s not my responsibility,” offer, “let me find who can help with this.” These subtle shifts build credibility, trust, and lasting influence.
- Power is Knowing When To Step Back
Ethical leadership means knowing when to push, when to pull, and when to pause. Stepping back doesn’t mean disengaging; it means having the self-awareness and confidence to allow others to shine, to grow, and to take ownership. It’s recognizing that leadership is not a solo act but a shared journey. In doing so, leaders build trust, nurture talent, and create resilient, empowered teams.
Closing the session, Gacanja left the audience with a final thought: “ True leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room or having the final say. It’s about inspiring action, enabling others, and using influence to create meaningful, measurable transformation.” – He reminded participants,
As the second module of the CIO Programme concluded, participants not only left with knowledge from notable facilitators but were also inspired to use their power wisely.
Next stop?… An international trip to Poland!
Caption: On the left, seated, Dr. Bright Gameli Mawudor, Cybersecurity Expert with CIO Leadership Programme participants and @iLabAfrica staff.
About the CIO Leadership Programme:
The programme is designed for senior IT management personnel in local/regional companies who wish to enhance their knowledge and competence in IT Management.
Through this programme, participants will learn how to integrate key management concepts and best practices to develop strategic thinking and leadership skills, as well as have an integrated view of the business landscape. The course will also cover current trends in technology and their relevance to local businesses in a (post-) pandemic world.