GLM TEAM 
As Africa’s economies continue to outpace much of the world, the All Africa Business Leaders Awards (AABLA™) returns for its 13th year to celebrate the people and organisations driving that progress. The awards have become one of the continent’s most credible acknowledgements of business leadership, honouring excellence while reshaping global perceptions of what African enterprises can achieve.
“Every year, the AABLA™ shines a light on leaders who are challenging convention and fundamentally changing the way in which the world sees African business,” says Sam Bhembe, Founding Director of the ABN Group and Head Judge.
“These awards are truly meaningful because they recognise real achievement – the people and companies building lasting value, creating opportunity, making a difference in communities, and igniting growth where it’s needed most.”
According to the African Export-Import Bank’s African Trade and Economic Outlook 2025, Africa’s real GDP is projected to expand by 4.0% in 2025, with 41% of African economies expected to grow by 5% or more. By comparison, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) forecasts global growth at just 3% for 2025, with most advanced economies expected to remain at 1.5%.
Against this backdrop, African businesses are scaling faster and reaching further than ever before in a variety of fields ranging from fintech to manufacturing, and healthcare to creative industries. However, their stories often go untold, notes Bhembe.
“Africa doesn’t lack excellence. It simply lacks recognition, which is why the AABLA are so crucial in amplifying African leadership on its own terms. They shine a light on leaders who are proving that innovation and impact can thrive here at a global standard.”
Top minds announced as judges
This week, the AABLA™ has unveiled its panel of judges, representing some of the most distinguished names in business, academia, and media from across the continent, and bringing together a wealth of experience in keeping with the awards’ prestigious reputation.
“The strength of the judging panel speaks to the credibility of the of the awards. Being acknowledged by fellow leaders through a trusted platform like the AABLA serves as a valuable brand endorsement that could attract investors or partners, and open doors that might otherwise remain closed.
“The award signals business’ success to the market, and inspires real confidence – which is ultimately what fuels sustainable growth across Africa’s economies.”
Among those lending their expertise to this year’s adjudication process are:
- Godfrey Mutizwa, Editor-in-Chief of CNBC Africa;
- Stavros Nicolaou, Group Senior Executive: Strategic Trade at Aspen Pharma Group;
- Renuka Methil, Managing Editor of Forbes Africa;
- Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba, Chairman of the East African Securities Exchanges Association and CEO of the Rwanda Stock Exchange;
- Geoffrey Qhena, Chairperson of Exxaro Resources and Telkom, and Non-Executive Director at Investec Bank;
- Jacques Le Roux, General Manager of Henley Business School Africa;
- Professor Sarah Chiumbu, Associate Professor in the Department of Communication and Media School of Communication;
- Professor Chris Ogbechie, Professor of Strategic Management and Dean of Lagos Business School; and
- Dr Emmanuel Arthur, Provost and CEO of Lancaster University Ghana.
Setting the benchmark for African excellence
The judging process is both meticulous and rigorous, upholding the awards’ signature credibility and impartiality. First, over a month-long research and nomination campaign, a diverse range of stand-out leaders and companies are identified from across the continent. Next, the AABLA™ Research Committee vets and scores every nomination, and the highest-ranked candidates are shortlisted for the judges’ review.
Each finalist then undergoes a detailed evaluation by the judging panel for confidential scoring. Finally, all results are independently verified by the chairman of judges, an accredited business school partner, and an auditing partner to ensure that the absolute integrity of the process is upheld.
“The awards have become a defining symbol of African excellence, and we take our responsibility as judges very seriously. This process is specifically designed to celebrate real achievement – leaders who don’t just talk about change, but clearly demonstrate it through their work,” Bhembe adds.
Finalists from across the continent will converge at the AABLA™ Gala Evening on 12 November 2025 at the Sandton Convention Centre, a black-tie event where Africa’s most influential business and media figures will gather to honour the 2025 winners. Renowned for its world-class entertainment, unrivalled networking opportunities, and the inspiring stories of the leaders elevating Africa’s global standing, the gala has become a highlight on the continental business calendar.
Limited seats are still available for those wishing to attend the event. To secure tickets, visit www.aablaawards.com.
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