Dr Carol Kyazze

Title: Executive Director
Organization: Axiom Zorn

Carol Kyazze Kakooza is a seasoned Data Forensic Scientist and ICT for Agriculture Specialist, whose career spans Agriculture, Information Systems Management, Big Data, Mobile Technologies, and Monitoring and Evaluation. Her expertise in leveraging digital innovations to foster financial inclusion and agricultural development has been pivotal across sectors, including banking, finance, and intellectual property.

Carol holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication, an MS in Information Systems, and an MBA. Over the years, she has held key roles in prestigious organizations such as the Netherlands Space Office, Mercy Corps, Grameen Foundation, and World Vision, where she integrated mobile technology with agriculture and finance systems to create impact at the base of the pyramid.

As the Founder of Axiom Zorn, Carol spearheads an innovative data enterprise focused on empowering smallholder farmers in Uganda. Axiom Zorn’s flagship product, the Digital Empowerment Card (DEC), revolutionizes access to financial services, market linkages, and agricultural advisory for smallholder farmers. With a target of profiling 1,000,000 farmer households by 2026y Carol is driving change at the intersection of technology, agriculture, and financial inclusion. Her most significant innovation, the Progress Out of Poverty (POP) Credit Score, is a transformative social credit tool providing access to finance for underserved populations—offering a pathway to financial independence for millions.

Championing Intellectual Property in the Digital Economy

Carol is also a passionate advocate for Intellectual Property (IP) rights, particularly within the digital and agricultural sectors. She recognizes the critical role IP plays in protecting innovations and fostering growth in Uganda’s digital economy. As a thought leader in IP, Carol has actively contributed to discussions around localizing intellectual property and the Data privacy policy while working with Data protection team from NITA U which benefit Uganda’s digital transformation. She has emphasized the need for creating policies that safeguard the innovations of smallholder farmers and entrepreneurs, helping them benefit from their intellectual assets.

Global Impact and Leadership

Carol’s influence extends beyond her work at Axiom Zorn. She has been a participant in influential programs like the LHoFT Catapult Inclusion Africa and the SAIS Investment Readiness Program, demonstrating her commitment to driving innovation across borders. In 2023, she was honored with the Aptech Award at the Africa Fintech Summit in Zambia for her outstanding contributions to fintech, IP/data utilization advocacy, and digital transformation. Carol envisions a future where the lower pyramid becomes the largest market for financial services, using technology and intellectual property to drive inclusion and growth. Her innovative efforts have earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Aurora IT Award for Most Outstanding Woman-Led Innovation in Africa

A sought-after speaker, Carol has shared her insights on international platforms such as the ICT4D Conferences and Mobile World Conference Summits in Barcelona and the USA, where her expertise in data, technology, financial inclusion, and intellectual property has resonated with global audiences.

Rotary Contributions and Leadership

Carol’s dedication to service is exemplified in her journey with Rotary International. As the Public Relations Coordinator for Rotary District 9213 and host of the “Rotary Moment show,” Carol has highlighted the impactful work of Rotary in Uganda. Carol has grown into a full-time Rotarian at the Rotary Club of Kiwatule, where she has served in various leadership roles, championing the Rotary mission of service and community engagement.

Vision for a Brighter Future

Looking ahead, Carol is focused on launching the Digital Agricultural Reference Bureau, Africa’s first digital public infrastructure for agriculture, which will revolutionize data management in the sector while incorporating intellectual property considerations to ensure the protection and monetization of farmers’ innovations.

A Legacy of Hope, Progress, and Innovation

Carol Kyazze Kakooza’s journey is a testament to the power of dedication, innovation, and resilience. Her leadership has transformed countless lives through her work in financial inclusion, data integrity, and intellectual property advocacy. With a clear vision and unwavering commitment, Carol continues to inspire a future where technology, financial inclusion, intellectual property, and sustainable development are within reach for all.