Meet Dr. Satwinder Singh Rupra, a distinguished cybersecurity expert and entrepreneur from Kisumu. His professional journey began in 2008 after earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Technology from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT). What started as casual requests from colleagues seeking help with computer issues soon turned into a small laptop and desktop repair business, marking his first step into the world of entrepreneurship.
In 2009, Dr. Satwinder Singh Rupra launched a modest technical support workshop, which later evolved into Sumo Computers a venture he co-founded with his brother, Kuljeet. By combining their strengths in technical proficiency and marketing, the duo established a comprehensive retail and IT support center. Their business capitalized on the growing demand for technology services as digital adoption became increasingly widespread.
While managing the daily operations of his business, Dr. Satwinder Singh Rupra also pursued advanced academic qualifications, earning both a Master’s and a PhD in IT Security and Audit. This experience taught him the value of innovation guided by a clear and purposeful vision, shaping his approach to both entrepreneurship and cybersecurity.
Addressing the Contemporary Challenges
Dr. Satwinder emphasises that we design IT services to cater to the diverse needs of businesses across various industries. Sumo believes in a client-centric approach that focuses on understanding the unique challenges and goals.
“Our team of skilled professionals works closely with you to develop and implement IT strategies that align with our clients’ business vision,” says Dr. Satwinder. “By staying ahead of industry trends and leveraging the latest technologies, we ensure that our solutions are not only effective but also future-proof.”
Sumo Enterprise Solutions is the most preferred choice of the clients, as it brings along the qualities of:
- Expertise: A team of seasoned IT professionals with extensive experience in various sectors led by the director, who is an expert in IT holding a PhD. “We do not think about numbers as much as we care about solving problems.”
- Innovation: Commitment to continuous improvement and adoption of cutting-edge technologies.
- Reliability: A track record of delivering high-quality services on time and within budget.
- Customer-centric: personalised service and support tailored to the business’s needs.
Contributing Locally and Internationally
Sumo drives digital transformation by serving diverse sectors from hospitals and universities to corporate offices and malls across Kenya and, increasingly, the East African region.
“Our various solutions are divided into three categories: ICT, physical security, and fire and life safety,” says Dr. Satwinder. “Our recent launch of smart solutions such as paperless visitor management systems, paid parking systems with ANPR and M-PESA, integrated and customised Wi-Fi and fire systems, and boom barriers in gated communities showcases our expanding technological footprint.”
The Differentiating Factor
What truly sets Sumo Enterprise Solutions apart is our unwavering commitment to excellence and delivery. We proudly maintain a 100% project completion rate—a rare achievement in the industry—because we approach every engagement with professionalism, precision, and a genuine partnership mindset.
We collaborate closely with clients during the design, planning, and recommendation stages, ensuring solutions are not only technically sound but also strategically aligned with each client’s goals and environment.
Perhaps most uniquely, the founders—Dr. Satwinder Singh Rupra and Kuljeet Singh—remain directly involved in every project, regardless of its size. Their hands-on leadership ensures that each solution reflects Sumo’s high standards, innovative edge, and personal accountability. This leadership-driven culture fosters trust, builds lasting relationships, and keeps our delivery consistently ahead of the curve.
A Steadfast Leader
Dr. Satwinder is a tactical and inspiring team builder, with experience in training, team development, and delivering excellence.
He has successfully led the company’s projects for several years, delivering IT solutions. An inspiring and conscientious leader, with a strong background in IT, a solid reputation for completing high-profile projects, and driving customer satisfaction
Dr. Satwinder provides leadership, direction, and management for the entire technical department. This includes hiring, training, and managing IT personnel, in addition to administering employee performance reviews.
Leveraging his strong technical acumen to suggest new technologies, Dr. Satwinder enhances existing technologies and ensures the technical department delivers all the projects the company undertakes. Dr. Satwinder serves as the subject matter expert for all other technical employees. Research, evaluate, and make recommendations on IT directions for the company’s clients.
Achievements
Sumo has been privileged to deliver transformative solutions for some of the most forward-thinking developers and institutions in East Africa. One of the major achievements has been working with Acorn Holdings Limited to implement comprehensive fire detection and life safety systems across several of their student hostels. These systems are not only compliant with international safety standards but have been intricately integrated with HVAC, pumps, lifts, and other building infrastructure, all tailored to prioritise the safety and convenience of students during emergencies.
Another standout project is the deployment of a state-of-the-art, QR-based, paperless, and manless visitor management system for One Africa Limited in Nairobi. This system reflects Sumo’s commitment to smart, secure, and seamless access solutions for modern commercial spaces, reducing human error and enhancing building intelligence.
Additionally, the footprint has extended regionally with a landmark project at Shukran Palace in Zanzibar, where Sumo delivered a full ICT and security infrastructure solution from structured cabling and Wi-Fi to CCTV, fire alarms, and AV systems, demonstrating the ability to scale and execute high-spec projects across borders.
Leveraging Technology
“At Sumo Enterprise Solutions, we see ourselves as ambassadors of technology, not just resellers or installers,” says Dr. Satwinder. We curate, customise, and implement technology as a service, ensuring it is meaningful, sustainable, and scalable for each client. Digital transformation isn’t just part of our model; it is the foundation.”
Sumo is constantly evolving with trends. For example, Sumo integrates Cisco Meraki’s cloud-managed networking solutions for seamless, secure connectivity across institutions and enterprises. “Our adoption of GPON (Gigabit Passive Optical Network) allows clients, especially in residential, hospitality, and campus environments, to experience ultra-fast, efficient data and IPTV delivery over fibre.”
On the safety front, Sumo is deploying aspirating smoke detection systems that provide ultra-early fire warning in high-risk or sensitive environments, significantly ahead of conventional detectors. In the smart living space, Sumo designs and implements home automation systems that control lighting, blinds, security, and energy management, all via intuitive apps or voice commands.
By leading with innovation and tailoring technology to real-world needs, Sumo not only scales the operations across Kenya and beyond but also empowers the clients to grow securely and intelligently in the digital age.
Lesson: Shaping Leadership
Dr. Satwinder says continuous reinvestment in human capital and technology is essential for scaling. “Prioritise knowledge: My PhD and research work in IT security help us to focus ahead and move forward,” added Dr. Satwinder. “Business resilience in volatile settings is underpinned by integrity and faith.”
Start small, think big—lay solid foundations while elevating your vision. Build a reputation rooted in quality and integrity, invest in continuous learning, and always aim to uplift your community. True leadership in Africa blends business with service and empowerment.
Supporting Social Causes
Beyond his technical prowess, Dr. Satwinder is a dedicated leader within his community and in public service. He is a lecturer and postgraduate supervisor and has contributed to several of the structures of IT courses for universities and polytechnics. He has served as Honorary Secretary and Youth Convener for the Ramgarhia Sikh Sabha and as a licensed minister of faith in Kenya. Dr. Satwinder’s commitment to education is evident through his role as Chairman of the Board of Governors for Ugenya Technical and Vocational College (2019-2025) and as a Member of the Industry Advisory Committee for Bondo Technical Training Institute. Furthermore, he contributes to civic leadership as a director on the board of KIWASCO, chairing its Risk and Audit Committee.
The Future Roadmap
In the next 3 to 5 years, Sumo’s goal is to firmly position itself as a pan-African technology powerhouse. Sumo is actively expanding its footprint beyond its current locations, with the long-term objective of increasing its presence in Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Ethiopia.
A key focus area of this growth is the West venture of Sumo Cybersecurity. As organisations in the region face increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, the firm is already working with leading corporates and institutions to audit their environments, implement proactive defence systems, and enhance their cyber resilience. From penetration testing and security audits to SIEM deployment and policy development, Sumo is positioning Sumo Cybersecurity as a trusted regional partner in digital risk management.
Through this expansion, both in geography and in vertical depth, Sumo aims to serve clients holistically, combining physical infrastructure, smart systems, and cybersecurity under one trusted brand. “Our vision is to lead the digital evolution in East Africa with integrity, innovation, and impact,” concluded Dr. Satwinder.
- 📌 Visit Satwinder Singh Rupra👉 – LinkedIn Profile
- 🌐 Explore Sumo Enterprise Solutions👉 – Company Website
