by SAVIOUS KWINIKA
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – AFRICA’S most influential business minds, innovators, and changemakers gathered at the Sandton Convention Centre for the 13th All Africa Business Leaders Awards (AABLA), a showcase of excellence that continues to spotlight those shaping the continent’s economic and social transformation.
More than a ceremony, the AABLA has become a catalyst—encouraging trailblazers to continue reshaping African industries, integrating regional markets, and reinforcing Africa’s rising prominence on the global stage.
Roberta Naicker, Managing Director of ABN Group and organiser of the awards, emphasised the significance of the recognition.
“Being among the winners affirms that your dedication and passion for innovation are shaping the continent and driving its economy forward,” she said.
Naicker noted that Africa’s resilience—demonstrated in the rapid adoption of mobile money, the global ascent of fintech champions, and the pivot of local manufacturers during the pandemic—has been fuelled by leaders capable of adapting and accelerating progress despite disruption.
The 2025 edition highlighted a defining theme: Africa’s accelerating technological influence.
ABN Group Vice-Chairman Sid Wahi captured this shift by noting that Africa has moved from “promise to performance,” driven by innovators in AI, fintech, manufacturing, and mobility across cities like Kigali, Cairo, Nairobi, and Lagos.
This year’s honourees reflect the depth of this momentum.
Tolulope Williams, Founder and Chief Procurements and Technical Officer of Siltech World, was named Innovator of the Year for his groundbreaking contributions to e-mobility and clean-energy manufacturing—advancing Africa’s transition to sustainable transport.
The Sports, Arts and Culture Award went to acclaimed flautist and composer Wouter Kellerman, whose global footprint has elevated African artistic excellence to new audiences.
Samuel Nwanze, CFO of Heirs Energies and Executive Director at Heirs Holdings Group, received CFO of the Year, honoured for advancing indigenous-led energy development and major investment-led growth across the sector.
Dynamic leadership was further recognised with Dr Owen Omogiafo, Group CEO of Transnational Corporation Plc, being named Businesswoman of the Year for her impact on governance, transformation, and inclusive corporate leadership.
Ecobank Group took home Company of the Year, underscoring its role in expanding accessible financial services across more than 30 African markets.
Lincoln Mali, CEO (Southern Africa) of Lesaka Technologies Inc., earned Business Leader of the Year for driving digital financial inclusion and strengthening payment ecosystems serving underserved communities.
One of the night’s most celebrated honours—the Africa Lifetime Achievement Award and African Leader of the Year—was presented to Stephen Saad, Group Chief Executive of Aspen Pharmacare, recognised for building Africa’s largest pharmaceutical manufacturer and expanding the continent’s capacity for essential medicine production.
The Chairperson of the Year Award went to Mteto Nyati, Chairman of Eskom and Executive Chairman of BSG, acknowledged for his strategic leadership and reform-focused approach within South Africa’s corporate sector.
Closing the honours, Professor Benedict Oramah, former President and Chairman of Afreximbank, received the prestigious African of the Decade Award for his role in deepening intra-African trade and strengthening financial integration across the continent.
As the AABLA enters its next decade, its mission remains unchanged: to highlight the leadership shaping a more competitive, connected, and innovative Africa—one visionary at a time.
– CAJ News