The African Leadership Magazine has officially announced the nominees for the 2025 edition of the African Business Leadership Awards (ABLA), one of the continent’s most prestigious platforms honoring corporate leadership, ethical governance, and economic innovation. This year’s 17 categories reflect the dynamism of Africa’s business landscape and recognize leaders who are making a tangible impact in their respective fields.
Among the standout nominees are Paul Russo, CEO of Kenya’s KCB Group, nominated for “African Business Leader of the Year” for his transformative role in regional banking and his innovative approach to financial inclusion. Jesca Mhoja Nkwabi, CEO of Tanzania’s KOM Group, is nominated for “Young Business Leader of the Year” thanks to her bold entrepreneurial vision and her influence on youth empowerment in East Africa.
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Public voting, open until May 29, 2025, marks the third phase of a rigorous four-stage selection process. This system combines open nominations, an editorial shortlisting, and public participation—allocating 65% of the final decision to public votes and the remaining 35% to verifiable evidence submitted by the nominees.
Winners and top finalists will be honored at a ceremony during the 15th edition of the ABLA Awards, scheduled for July 9–10, 2025, at the House of Lords in London. The event will coincide with the Africa–London Summit, reinforcing the international stature of the awards.
With this new edition, the ABLA Awards reaffirm their role as a vital platform for highlighting African achievements, connecting talent, and inspiring transformative leadership with global reach. Voting is now open on the magazine’s official website, inviting stakeholders from across the continent and beyond to be part of this celebration of African progress.