In this digital age, data is no longer just a byproduct of business operations; it is a powerful resource that shapes strategies and decisions across various sectors. Data Science has emerged as a pivotal field that harnesses this resource, enabling organizations to understand their clients and deliver value effectively.
Understanding Data Science
At its core, Data Science is the study of data to extract meaningful insights and inform decision-making. It combines statistics, mathematics, programming, and domain knowledge to analyze structured and unstructured data. As businesses increasingly rely on data to drive their strategies, Data Science has become essential for making informed decisions, predicting future trends, and creating innovative solutions.
The Dual Nature of Data
Data can be categorized into two types: structured and unstructured. Structured data is highly organized and easily searchable, such as databases and spreadsheets. In contrast, unstructured data includes text, images, and social media content, which require advanced analytical techniques to extract insights. Both types of data play a crucial role in shaping business strategies and customer engagement.
The Importance of Data Science
Data Science not only aids in decision-making but also empowers organizations to stand out in competitive markets. By leveraging data, companies can tailor their offerings to meet customer needs, optimize operations, and foster innovation. For example, in healthcare, predictive analytics can improve patient outcomes by identifying potential health risks early.
A Call for more Women in Data Science
Despite the potential of Data Science, the field remains male-dominated. However, experts believe that women have a unique opportunity to excel in this arena. As one data scientist noted, “Data Science is not just about numbers; it’s about storytelling. Women often bring a different perspective that can drive innovative solutions.” This perspective is crucial as organizations seek to diversify their teams and enhance creativity.
Organizations like Women in Data Science (WiDS) Cameroon are actively working to encourage women to enter the field. These initiatives provide mentorship, training, and networking opportunities, making it easier for women to break into Data Science. By fostering a supportive community, WiDS Cameroon aims to empower women and promote inclusivity in this burgeoning industry.
Trends and Opportunities in Africa
The rise of Data Science is particularly significant in Africa, where businesses are increasingly leveraging data to drive growth. Educational support systems are being established to equip aspiring data scientists with the necessary skills. For instance, initiatives that provide affordable Data Science training are essential for democratizing access to this field. Recent studies show that the demand for data professionals in Africa is expected to grow by over 25% in the next few years. Opportunities abound in various sectors, including:
- Agriculture: Data Science is being used to optimize crop yields and improve disease prediction and treatment.
- Business: Companies are analyzing user behavior to tailor their offerings and enhance customer satisfaction.
- Health: Predictive analytics is transforming healthcare by enabling proactive patient care.
The Role of Mentorship
Mentorship plays a crucial role in the journey of aspiring data scientists. Experienced professionals can provide guidance, share insights, and help newcomers navigate the complexities of the field. To some, “Having a mentor can make all the difference. They can open doors and provide invaluable advice.”
The Rising Influence of AI
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with Data Science has revolutionized how data is analyzed and utilized. AI algorithms can process vast amounts of data at unprecedented speeds, uncovering patterns and predictions that were previously inconceivable. This trend is not only enhancing efficiency but also creating new job opportunities in the field.
As Data Science continues to evolve, it presents a wealth of opportunities for women and underrepresented groups. By leveraging data to drive decision-making and innovation, women can significantly impact various industries. Embracing this change, would earn them a place at the forefront of Data Science, driving progress and innovation across the globe.
Interview with Dr. Magbor E. Atem.
Few days to the second edition of the Women in Data Science Conference taking place in Yaoundé on July 3, 2025 I had the privilege to chat with the amazing trailblazer to share industry insights on Data Science and prospects for African markets.
Question: What can individuals and businesses use data for?
Dr. Magbor: (smiles and reels in her answer)
The Biggest ones are
v Collecting and Analyzing data for companies
v Selling Data with reports and insights
v Providing consulting and data prediction and story-telling (she adds that this is huge)
And for protecting we have
- Data Governance
- Data Encryption to ensure people’s details are secured especially when dealing with regulated organizations like the ministries, banks, hospitals, investments, etc
Question: Tell us about some successful data monetization models across different industries:
Dr. Magbor: Here are some concrete examples in the USA
Example: Flatiron Health
- Collect real-world cancer treatment data from oncology practices
- Sell anonymized datasets to pharmaceutical companies for drug development
- Acquired by Roche for $1.9 billion in 2018
Example: IQVIA (formerly IMS Health)
- Aggregates prescription data from pharmacies and healthcare providers
- Sells market intelligence reports to pharmaceutical companies
- Generates billions in revenue from healthcare data analytics
Example: Mastercard
- Monetizes transaction data through their “Data & Services” division
- Provides consumer spending insights to retailers and governments
- Offers fraud detection services based on transaction patterns
- Generated over $5 billion in revenue from data services in recent years
Example: American Express
- Uses spending data to create targeted advertising platforms
- Partners with merchants to provide customer insights
- Offers benchmarking services to business clients
Example: Amazon
- Monetizes customer data through targeted advertising (Amazon DSP)
- Sells market intelligence to brands selling on their platform
- Uses purchase data to optimize inventory and pricing
Example: Walmart
- Launched Walmart Connect advertising platform
- Sells shopper insights to consumer goods companies
- Uses transaction data for supply chain optimization
Example: Google
- Search and user behavior data powers targeted advertising
- Google Analytics provides insights while collecting valuable data
- Cloud services monetize enterprise data processing needs
Example: UPS
- ORION system uses delivery data to optimize routes
- Sells logistics consulting based on shipping pattern insights
- Provides supply chain analytics to enterprise customers
Example: Uber
- Monetizes ride data through Uber for Business insights
- Provides city planning data to municipalities
- Uses demand patterns for dynamic pricing optimization
Question: How do you think companies in Africa can use these models for data protection and optimization?
Dr. Magbor: Well, African companies can leverage the following…
- Data Quality & Scale: Companies with large, high-quality datasets
- Privacy Compliance: Strong anonymization and consent processes
- Value Proposition: Clear benefits for data buyers
- Technical Infrastructure: Robust platforms for data processing and delivery
- Industry Expertise: Deep understanding of customer needs in target markets
Trailblazer in Data Science – Cameroon.
Dr. Magbor E. Atem—a visionary leader and pioneering executive—currently serving as the Managing Director of Elim Technologies LLC and represents Cameroon as an Ambassador for Women in Data Science (WIDS). Dr. Atem’s credentials are extensive: she is a certified PMP Project Manager and Scrum Master, a Senior DevOps Operations Engineer, and an esteemed Executive Coach in Strategic Operations Efficiency, working with leading multinational corporations.
Her passion for leveraging cutting-edge technologies and digital innovations drives her to identify key opportunities and implement sophisticated solutions that significantly boost efficiency and profitability.
Dr. Atem’s academic achievements are equally impressive: she holds a Doctorate of Business Administration in Business Information Systems and Operations Management, a Master of Science in Healthcare Informatics from UNC Charlotte, and a Master of Science (Distinction) in Management and Marketing from Birmingham City University, UK. Her educational portfolio is rounded out with a Bachelor of Science in Economics and Management and a Diploma in Business Intelligence and Web Development.
A respected member of the Project Management Institute (PMI), the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), and the Charlotte Business Intelligence Group (CBIG), Dr. Atem is a beacon of inspiration and leadership in her field.
Offstage, she is a dedicated wife and mother to three wonderful daughters and enjoys enriching her life through reading, reflective meditation, beach outings, travel with her family, and her volunteer work with Big Brother/Big Sister.
Dr. Magbor E. Atem is not only a seasoned professional and educator but also a dynamic speaker, ready to inspire your audience with her insightful perspectives and innovative approaches to business and technology.
