Charles Chukwuebuka Awuzie

Charles Chukwuebuka Awuzie, born on February 13, 1984, is a Nigerian-born, South African-based software engineer, cybersecurity expert, entrepreneur, and international speaker. Known for his pioneering contributions to the fields of technology, transhumanism, and social advocacy, Awuzie is the CEO of Gemsbok Group, a leading InfoTech company, and co-founder of Transhuman Coin. Through his work, Awuzie has become a prominent voice for innovation, technology-driven development, and governance reform in Africa.

Early Life

Date and Place of Birth: Awuzie was born in Aba, Abia State, Nigeria, into a religious and polygamous family. His parents, both educators, instilled a strong commitment to education and moral values in their children. He grew up in a close-knit family environment, balancing traditional Igbo culture with exposure to modernity.

Family Background: Awuzie’s father was a teacher, while his mother managed household affairs and supported the family’s educational pursuits. He is the second child in a family of five siblings.

Childhood Experiences: Growing up in Aba, a bustling commercial city, Charles was exposed to diverse cultural and economic activities. His early interest in technology began when he disassembled household electronics, sparking a lifelong passion for innovation.

Education

Awuzie’s formal education reflects his diverse interests:

• Biochemistry Degree: Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria.
• Diploma in Theology and Information Technology: A testament to his holistic approach to science and spirituality.
• Harvard’s CS50 Certification (2015): Completed under renowned computer scientist David J. Malan, which strengthened his problem-solving and computational skills.
• CompTIA Security+ and Linux Server Administration (2016): Enhanced his expertise in cybersecurity and server management.

Career Beginnings

After his academic pursuits, Awuzie relocated to Johannesburg, South Africa, where his career in software engineering began.

• Web Development: From 2009 to 2012, he worked as a Senior Web Developer at Afro Rescue Integrated Services, mastering programming languages like Python, PHP, and Linux.
• Entrepreneurship: In 2012, he founded Gemsbok Group, focusing on software solutions, ethical hacking, and cybersecurity. The firm has since partnered with global giants like Cisco and IBM.

Professions and Occupations

1. Software Engineer:
   Charles Awuzie is a highly skilled software engineer with expertise in programming languages such as Python, PHP, HTML, and Linux. His work includes developing web applications, cybersecurity solutions, and innovative tech products.
2. Cybersecurity Expert:
   Awuzie is a certified cybersecurity professional with expertise in ethical hacking, Linux server administration, and CompTIA Security+. He actively combats digital fraud and educates businesses on cybersecurity best practices.
3. Entrepreneur:
   As the CEO and founder of Gemsbok Group, Awuzie leads a team of professionals delivering cutting-edge solutions in InfoTech, electric vehicle power innovations, and ethical hacking services.
4. Cryptocurrency Innovator:
   Co-founder of Transhuman Coin (THC), a cryptocurrency dedicated to funding technological advancements that enhance human life. He is a key voice in promoting blockchain technology across Africa.
5. International Speaker:
   Awuzie regularly speaks at conferences and seminars on topics such as transhumanism, cybersecurity, governance, and personal development. His “Evolve Conferences” have gained international recognition.
6. Author:
   Published Evolve in 30 Days: How You Can Change Your Life in 30 Days in 2023, a guide to personal and professional transformation.
7. Philanthropist:
   Through initiatives like Evolve Conferences and workshops, he mentors young Africans and supports poverty eradication by promoting access to technology and education.
8. Political Commentator:
   An advocate for good governance and an active commentator on Nigerian politics, Awuzie uses his platform to call for reforms, transparency, and accountability.
9. Pastor (Former):
   Previously a pastor with Charles Awuzie Ministries International, he transitioned to focus on transhumanism and technology but continues to inspire others with his faith-based principles.
10. Social Advocate:
    Awuzie is committed to using technology to address societal issues, from poverty alleviation to governance reform, making him a leading figure in Africa’s socio-technical ecosystem.

Major Achievements

• Gemsbok Group: Developed innovative solutions like electric vehicle charging power banks capable of fully charging Tesla cars in 18 minutes. These products have gained recognition globally and are exported to the U.S. and Australia.
• Transhuman Coin (THC): Co-founded a cryptocurrency to fund research and development of life-enhancing technologies, with a market cap exceeding $1.6 million.
• Evolve Conferences: As the convener of these transformative gatherings, Awuzie empowers African innovators through mentorship and skills training.
• Political Advocacy: Actively campaigns for good governance and technology adoption as tools to eradicate poverty in Africa.

Personal Life

Charles is married to Zamar Awuzie, the daughter of Sibongile Judith Nkomo, a South African politician and former Secretary-General of the Inkatha Freedom Party. The couple resides in Johannesburg and has three children. Despite his busy professional life, Charles remains a devoted family man who emphasizes the importance of work-life balance.

Health Challenges and Resilience

In 2024, Charles revealed a personal health struggle with deep vein thrombosis (DVT). A life-threatening blood clot in his leg required urgent medical intervention, and he continues to manage the condition. Sharing his journey publicly, Awuzie advocates for increased awareness about circulatory health issues.

Charles C. Awuzie, a Nigerian-born cybersecurity expert and entrepreneur based in South Africa, has been open about his health challenges, particularly concerning blood clots. In March 2024, following the death of Nigerian actor John Okafor, popularly known as Mr. Ibu, Awuzie revealed that he had experienced a similar health scare. He disclosed that he had suffered from blood clots in his leg, a condition that nearly claimed his life. Awuzie mentioned that he still had a clot in his left leg and emphasized the importance of recognizing the symptoms of blood clots, noting that timely medical intervention had been crucial in his case.

Blood clots, particularly deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can be life-threatening if not promptly treated. Awuzie’s experience underscores the significance of awareness and early detection in managing such health issues. His openness about his health struggles serves as an important reminder of the need for vigilance regarding circulatory health.

For more insights from Charles Awuzie, you can explore his YouTube channel, “The Intellectuals With Charles Awuzie,” where he discusses various topics related to technology, personal development, and societal issues.

Criticisms and Controversies

• Christian Doctrine of Tithing

One of the earliest and most explosive controversies surrounding Charles Chukwuebuka Awuzie was his public criticism of the Christian doctrine of tithing. He gained national attention after writing an open letter to Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of Living Faith Church (Winners’ Chapel), in which he strongly questioned the biblical foundation of mandatory tithing in modern Christianity.

Awuzie argued that tithing had been weaponized by certain church leaders to exploit financially struggling believers. His exact words were unapologetic and direct, calling for transparency and urging Christians to study scriptures for themselves rather than follow church dogma blindly.

The letter went viral and drew intense backlash from Oyedepo’s followers, many of whom considered the message sacrilegious and disrespectful. He was labeled “rebellious,” “anti-Christ,” and “a false teacher” by some Pentecostal communities. Despite the heat, Awuzie stood his ground, maintaining that truth must prevail over blind loyalty to any religious leader, no matter how revered.

• Political Commentary

Awuzie is also a controversial figure in the political arena, particularly during Nigeria’s 2023 presidential elections, where he offered unflinching support for Labour Party candidate Peter Obi. He regularly criticized political corruption, tribal politics, and poor governance—especially under the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration.

While his political activism earned him praise from youth and reform-minded Nigerians, it also invited heavy criticism from loyalists of other political factions, especially supporters of Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Atiku Abubakar. Some critics accused him of using tribal sentiments to push his preferred candidate, while others viewed his social media activism as unnecessarily provocative and divisive.

His posts often sparked online debates and polarized reactions, especially when he tackled sensitive issues like election rigging, the judiciary, and military involvement in civil matters.

• Accusation of Homosexuality

Among the most damaging personal controversies Awuzie faced was a public accusation of homosexuality. This emerged from a viral social media post where an anonymous account alleged that he was involved in gay relationships—an accusation considered socially and legally dangerous in Nigeria and parts of Africa, where homosexuality remains taboo and even criminalized.

Awuzie strongly denied the accusation, calling it a smear campaign orchestrated by enemies threatened by his vocal activism, especially against religious and political elites. He publicly reaffirmed his heterosexuality and challenged his accusers to provide any evidence, stating:

“The truth needs no defense. My conscience is clear, and time will vindicate me.”

Supporters viewed the accusation as an attempt to silence or discredit him, especially considering the timing—just as his critique of megachurches and corrupt politicians was gaining momentum. However, critics held on to the narrative, further fueling online speculation.

Despite the storm, Awuzie continued his advocacy work undeterred, maintaining his presence as a bold and controversial voice in religious, tech, and socio-political discussions.

Philanthropy and Social Contributions

Charles is dedicated to eradicating poverty through technology. His efforts include:

• Providing affordable tech solutions to African communities.
• Hosting workshops to introduce young people to digital skills and entrepreneurship.
• Supporting governance reforms through his advocacy for accountability and transparency.

Legacy and Impact

Awuzie’s impact transcends the tech industry:

• Advancing Transhumanism in Africa: He is Africa’s most vocal advocate for transhumanism, promoting the integration of technology to enhance human life.
• Mentorship: Through platforms like the Evolve Conferences, he has mentored thousands of young professionals.
• Cybersecurity Leadership: As a recognized cybersecurity expert, he continues to develop solutions to combat digital fraud across Africa.

Later Life

As of 2024, Charles remains an influential figure in tech and social advocacy. His upcoming Evolve Conference in London, slated for September 2025, aims to expand his reach internationally.

Quotes and Personal Philosophy

“Technology is Africa’s golden ticket out of poverty. To empower one African with technology is to empower a generation.”

References

• Awuzie, Charles C. “Charles Awuzie – Evolve.CAMP.” Evolve.CAMP. Accessed December 2024.
• “Charles Awuzie Biography, Education, Career, and Challenges.” Factboyz, December 2024.
• “Charles Awuzie’s Controversial Letter to Bishop Oyedepo on Tithing.” Legit.ng, March 2024.
• “Charles Awuzie’s Health Struggles with Deep Vein Thrombosis.” Legit.ng, March 2024.
• “Transhuman Coin Market Growth.” EverybodyWiki Bios & Wiki. December 2024.
• “Evolve in 30 Days.” Amazon, September 2023.

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