Africa’s infrastructure story is increasingly being shaped by leaders and projects turning ambitious ideas into practical solutions, and a major industry platform is now seeking to spotlight those driving that progress.
African Infrastructure Elites: People and Projects has opened nominations for its 2026/2027 edition, inviting organisations across Africa’s power, energy, water, sanitation, transport and infrastructure sectors to nominate outstanding leaders and projects demonstrating measurable impact, innovation and potential.
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Now entering its 11th edition, the initiative, presented by ESI Africa and VUKA Group, is expanding its focus to reflect the changing infrastructure landscape across Africa. Its 2026/2027 theme, “Access and Affordability Empower Security for All,” highlights the importance of reliable and accessible infrastructure in supporting economic growth, resilience and sustainable development.
The initiative is designed to recognise the people and projects helping address some of the continent’s most important infrastructure needs. Its categories include leadership and rising stars, grid-connected and off-grid projects, smart and digital solutions, clean transport, energy projects at mines, water and sanitation, as well as finance and investment.
Nominations close on October 2, 2026, giving organisations across the continent an opportunity to put forward projects and individuals whose work is contributing to Africa’s infrastructure development.
Submissions will be independently reviewed by the African Infrastructure Elites Advisory Board, bringing together industry professionals from several African markets. The board includes Chanda Nxumalo, Managing Director of Harmattan Renewables in South Africa; George Aluru, Chief Executive Officer of the Electricity Sector Association of Kenya; Gordon Molefe, Founder and CEO of Business4U Consultants in Botswana; Ifey Ikoneu, an Energy Policy, Markets and Regulation Consultant in Ghana; Suleiman Babamanu, Nigeria Program Director at RMI; and Yolanda Mabuto, Managing Director of Divaine Growth Solutions in South Africa.
The selected leaders and projects will be featured in the African Infrastructure Elites 2026/2027 publication, alongside additional visibility through ESI Africa’s digital and multimedia platforms, webinars, social media and industry events.
The initiative arrives as infrastructure continues to play a central role in Africa’s economic ambitions. Expanding access to dependable electricity, clean water, efficient transport, digital connectivity and innovative financing can create stronger foundations for businesses, communities and industries to grow.
The platform also provides commercial opportunities for organisations seeking to participate in the infrastructure conversation. Companies can explore advertising, advertorial and editorial partnerships within the 2026/2027 edition, connecting their expertise and brands with an audience focused on Africa’s infrastructure markets.
For African infrastructure professionals, the initiative offers an opportunity not only for recognition but also for greater visibility around the solutions being developed across the continent. From renewable energy and digital systems to water infrastructure and cleaner transport, the projects being highlighted reflect an increasingly diverse infrastructure ecosystem.
As African economies continue to invest in connectivity, energy security, urban development and sustainable growth, the people behind these projects are becoming an increasingly important part of the story.
African Infrastructure Elites’ 2026/2027 edition therefore puts the spotlight where it belongs: on Africa’s builders, innovators, investors and infrastructure leaders who are helping shape the continent’s next chapter.
