Two South African business leaders, Melvyn Lubega and Daniel Ndima, were honoured at the 11th All Africa Business Leaders Awards for their remarkable achievements and innovation.
South Africa (02 July 2023) – The 11th All Africa Business Leaders Awards (AABLATM) took place on Friday evening, attracting an esteemed Pan-African audience that included government ministers, ambassadors, entrepreneurs, CEOs, and influential figures in corporate Africa.
The event served as a platform to honour and celebrate the remarkable achievements of Africa’s business leaders who have made a significant difference in their respective companies, industries, and communities.
Guests from across the continent and beyond arrived at the venue dressed in bespoke traditional and glamorous evening attire, setting the stage for an unforgettable red carpet-experience. True to its promise, the evening was infused with top-class entertainment, featuring captivating performances by acclaimed musician Wouter Kellerman, Grammy-winning saxophonist Kani Naidoo, and renowned poetess Lebo Mashile. Local DJ Jazzy D was also there to keep crowds entertained.
During his welcoming address, Rakesh Wahi, Co-Founder of the ABN Group, discussed the challenges that the continent still faces, including transparency, political uncertainty, currency volatility, poverty, inequality, and inadequate access to healthcare and education. Wahi called upon African leaders to embrace collaboration and partnerships, fostering knowledge sharing to tackle these complex issues. He also emphasized the role of government as a catalyst and the need for consistent policies to create a level playing field for businesses.
Addressing the delegates at this prestigious event held at the King’s Ballroom in Sun City, the Deputy President of South Africa, Honourable Paul Mashatile, also delivered a stirring speech.
He urged business leaders to remain steadfast in their efforts to improve industries and communities while emphasizing the significance of infrastructure investment across the African continent. Honourable Mashatile highlighted the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) as a pivotal catalyst for economic growth, stating that it has effectively created the world’s largest free trade area. With 55 participating countries and a combined GDP valued at US$3.4 trillion, the agreement has the potential to uplift millions of people out of poverty.
Among the winners of the All Africa Business Leaders Awards were two South African individuals who showcased their outstanding achievements:
- Young Business Leader of the Year: Melvyn Lubega, Executive Chairman of Boabab Group, South Africa. This accolade was presented by the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency (GGDA).
- Innovator of the Year: Daniel Ndima, CEO of CapeBio, South Africa. Ndima received this award, presented by Choppies Botswana, in recognition of his groundbreaking innovations.
These individuals exemplify the talent and entrepreneurial spirit that South Africa contributes to the business landscape of the African continent. Their achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring business leaders, showcasing the potential for innovation and success within the region.
The All Africa Business Leaders Awards (AABLATM) also honoured other exceptional leaders and organizations across various categories. These included the African Company of the Year, Afreximbank from Cairo, Egypt, and the Philanthropist of the Year, Lumbie Mlambo, Founder & CEO of JB Dondolo from Zimbabwe.
In addition to the awards, the AABLATM bestowed special recognition upon notable entities. The Trade and Investment Facilitation Agency of the Year was awarded to The Rwanda Development Board, presented by the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA). The Lifetime Achievement Award was given to Dr James Mwangi, Group Managing Director & CEO of Equity Group Holdings Plc from Kenya, while the African of the Year title was bestowed upon Dr John Nkengasong, U.S Global AIDS Coordinator and Special Representative for Global Health Diplomacy at the U.S. Department of State, originally from Cameroon but now based in America.
The annual All Africa Business Leaders Awards were proudly sponsored by Access Bank South Africa, Absa Bank Group, The Gauteng Growth and Development Agency (GGDA), The Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa (IDC), The Gautrain Management Agency, Sasfin Wealth South Africa, and Choppies Botswana. These awards were presented in partnership with CNBC Africa, Henley Business School Africa, and SNG Grant Thornton, showcasing the collective effort to recognize and promote business excellence across the continent.
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