Building Africa's Digital Future, Rooted in Africa.
Pioneering digital solutions that are deeply rooted in African realities and aspirations
SM Digital is purpose-driven founded and grounded in Africa. We design and build digital solutions and ecosystems to tackle some of Africa’s most pressing challenges. But we know technology alone isn’t enough. That’s why we focus on embedding digital solutions within local value chains - ensuring they are grounded, effective, and built to last. We’re committed to Africa’s digital sovereignty and to solutions that reflect local realities, languages, and needs.
Our Key Areas of Focus
AI Sovereignty
Data Analytics
Digital Transformation
Decision Support Tools
At SM Digital, we sit at the intersection of AI and the public sector, positioned to help governments and institutions harness the potential of AI-augmented work. Our goal is to simplify and demystify AI, walking the journey with our partners to meaningfully apply it in context, unlock new possibilities, and drive impact.
Our Guiding Principles
Embedding Solutions in Local Value Chains
Commitment to African Digital Sovereignty
Fostering Shared Knowledge and Collective Decision-Making
Digital Access for All:
Built with Affordability in Mind
Solutions that Speak African Languages and Realities
Building for Enduring Public Value
Dr Sandile Mbatha
Dr. Sandile Mbatha leads the work of SM Digital, leveraging data and technology to tackle complex governance challenges across Africa. As South Africa’s first National Chief Data Officer, he established the National Strategic Hub. With a PhD in Architecture and Town Planning, he has a strong track record of leading evidence-based policy development through city-wide research and strategic planning.
Dr Mbatha’s deep expertise in data strategy, technology management, and public sector governance has driven groundbreaking work on decision-support tools, SDG localization, and digital transformation in government.
Rebecca Viljoen
Rebecca Viljoen supports strategy and delivery across the SM Digital’s portfolio of digital governance solutions. With an MBA and an MSc in Violence, Conflict and Development, she brings a unique blend of expertise to complex public sector challenges. Having worked across NGOs, civil tech organisations, public sector consulting, and government, she has rich experience in inclusive development, programme management and partnership-building.