Africa’s foremost leaders, innovators, and changemakers gathered at the Sandton Convention Centre last night for the 13th edition of the All Africa Business Leaders Awards (AABLA). The annual ceremony once again recognised the continent’s boldest leaders, celebrating pioneers whose ideas and enterprises shape Africa’s economic and social future.
Roberta Naicker, Managing Director of the ABN Group, the organiser of the AABLA, affirms the significance of the recognition.
‘An AABLA award is an honour many of Africa’s most influential business leaders aspire to. Being among the winners affirms that your dedication and passion for innovation are shaping the continent and driving its economy forward.’
~ Roberta Naicker, Managing Director of the ABN Group, the organiser of the AABLA.
This forward momentum matters, since the past few years tested Africa’s toughness, along with the character and fortitude of its leaders. Consequently, we saw this resilience manifest in the rapid adoption of mobile money in specific markets; in the rise of African fintech giants that navigate global headwinds; and in the continent’s agile response to post-pandemic conditions.
Technology, Innovation, and the AABLA Vision
An unofficial theme emerged among the winners this year: African advancements in technology, and how they shape the continent’s economic landscape.
Sid Wahi, Vice-Chairman of The ABN Group, spoke to this in his opening address. He noted that the world’s perception of Africa’s potential shifts from promise to performance, meaning the continent’s innovators now define their own narrative of progress.
‘The conversation has changed in 2025. Africa is no longer waiting to arrive. Africa has arrived. In every corridor, from Kigali’s tech ecosystem and Cairo’s manufacturing zones to Nairobi’s AI labs and Lagos’ fintech sector, a new generation is proving that our destiny is determined by action.’
~ Sid Wahi, Vice-Chairman, The ABN Group.
The All Africa Business Leaders Awards Winners Shaping the Continent’s FutureThe All Africa Business Leaders Awards 2025 recognised 10 entrepreneurs and business powerhouses for their contributions to shaping Africa’s economic futures. As the spotlight fell on innovation and leadership, this year’s event celebrated a diverse cross-section of excellence.
Honourees in Technology, Finance, and Culture
To begin with, the 2025 Innovator of the Year Award went to Tolulope Williams, Founder and Chief Procurement and Technical Officer of Siltech World. In particular, Williams advances Africa’s clean-energy future through local e-vehicle manufacturing and deployment.
At the same time, celebrated flautist, composer, and producer Wouter Kellerman received the Sports, Arts and Culture Award for 2025. His global success, moreover, demonstrated the continent’s ability to lead in cultural innovation.
The Chief Financial Officer of the Year Award went to Samuel Nwanze, CFO of Heirs Energies and Executive Director at Heirs Holdings Group. Not only has he been instrumental in reshaping indigenous-led energy development, but he also steered landmark transactions.
Recognised for exemplary leadership in corporate governance, Dr Owen Omogiafo, Group Chief Executive of Transnational Corporation Plc, won Businesswoman of the Year 2025. In fact, her stewardship exemplifies the rise of women leaders redefining the power of inclusive leadership.
What’s more, Ecobank Group received the Company of the Year Award, which further affirms its position as one of Africa’s foremost pan-African banking institutions.
Simultaneously, Lincoln Mali, CEO (Southern Africa) of Lesaka Technologies Inc., became Business Leader of the Year 2025. Crucially, Mali guided Lesaka’s expansion into a digital powerhouse focused on financial inclusion.
Lifetime and Strategic Leadership Awards
Turning to legacy recognitions, the prestigious Africa Lifetime Achievement, as well as the honorary African Leader of the Year Award, went to Stephen Saad, Group Chief Executive of Aspen Pharmacare Holdings Limited. Saad grew Aspen into Africa’s largest pharmaceutical manufacturer, thereby ensuring broader access to essential drugs.
Additionally, in recognition of exemplary strategic leadership, Mteto Nyati, Chairman of Eskom and Executive Chairman of BSG, received the Chairperson of the Year Award 2025. Nyati’s vision for innovation-driven transformation now positions him as one of South Africa’s most respected corporate leaders.
Finally, Professor Benedict Oramah, former President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), received the African of the Decade Award. Notably, under his leadership, Afreximbank achieved consistent financial growth and significantly deepened intra-African trade.
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