Cisco, the worldwide leader in networking and security, today announced the appointment of Ossama Eldeeb as Managing Director for Africa, effective immediately. In this role, Ossama will lead Cisco’s commercial operations and investment strategy across Africa, working in close collaboration with the company’s local partner ecosystem to scale Cisco’s presence and accelerate inclusive digital growth. 

As Africa moves toward an AI-powered future, this appointment reflects Cisco's continued commitment to the continent. Cisco is helping Africa build the AI foundations it needs to scale, with secure infrastructure at the core. 

Ossama brings more than 26 years of international experience driving growth and scaling multi-country businesses across the Middle East and Africa. He previously served as the Regional Director Partner Organization for Cisco’s Middle East, Africa, Türkiye, Romania and CIS region, where he strengthened routes-to-market, expanded managed services, and led the region through Cisco 360 Partner Program transformation. 

“Ossama’s proven track record in scaling businesses and building strong partner ecosystems across the region makes him the ideal leader to drive our ambitions in Africa,” said Shane Heraty, Vice President, Cisco Middle East, Africa, Türkiye, and CIS. “Africa is a strategic priority for Cisco. Under Ossama’s leadership, we are confident we can deepen our impact, empowering governments, businesses, and communities with secure, AI-ready digital infrastructure and the skills to harness it.”

“Africa represents one of the most exciting growth opportunities in our industry,” said Ossama. “I am honoured to lead Cisco’s efforts to empower organizations, governments, and communities across the continent with the technology and skills they need to thrive in an AI-driven economy.”

Prior to Cisco, Ossama held senior leadership roles across partner, commercial, and sales at VMware, AMD, and Microsoft, where he delivered billions in partner-led business, grew emerging markets, and led government-assisted technology programs.  Ossama holds a master’s degree in mass communications, with a minor in Computer Science, from the American University in Cairo.

Driving Long-Term Impact Through Digital Infrastructure and Skills in Africa

Central to Cisco's strategy in Africa is its Country Digital Acceleration (CDA) program. Through long-term collaborations with governments, Cisco is aiming to accelerate digitalization, economic growth and secure digital infrastructure. Across the continent, Cisco has co-created 55 projects, demonstrating the power of public-private collaboration to deliver lasting economic and social impact.

Complementing this effort, the Cisco Networking Academy, one of the world’s longest-running IT skills-to-jobs programs, continues to equip learners across Africa with the skills needed for the digital and AI economy. To date, Cisco has reached 3.3 million learners in 56 African countries, supported by more than USD $390 million in curriculum, resources and expert support. Together, these efforts reflect Cisco's commitment to building Africa's digital talent and driving inclusive growth.