After three decades at global market research firm IDC, Mark Walker has exited the company, where he most recently served as vice president for data and analytics across the Middle East, Turkiye and Africa, as well as managing director of IDC South Africa. He is now turning his focus to a new technology-oriented consultancy, T4i, where he will continue working on ICT market analysis, policy insights, and strategy development across the African region.
T4i is positioned to help organizations navigate complex technology and connectivity landscapes by translating fragmented market dynamics-such as regulation, infrastructure, competition, pricing, and adoption-into practical, sustainable business strategies and growth plans. Reflecting on the industry's evolution, Walker points to major shifts from the early internet era through cloud computing and the fourth industrial revolution, to today's AI-driven transformation.
Looking ahead, he anticipates a more disciplined approach to AI adoption from 2026, with greater emphasis on measurable business value and human impact, as technology vendors, channel partners, and telecom operators adapt to tighter margins, changing ecosystems, and increasing pressure to deliver enhanced customer value.
