22 Finalists Announced For The 2025 AWIEF Awards

The Africa Women Innovation & Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) announces the finalists for the prestigious AWIEF Awards for 2025.

Held annually as part of the AWIEF Conference, the AWIEF Awards celebrate the remarkable achievements of women entrepreneurs and business leaders across the African continent.

The aim is to shine a spotlight on women who are driving innovation, building impactful businesses, advancing gender equality, and contributing to Africa’s inclusive economic growth and sustainable development.

“The AWIEF Awards are a powerful platform to honour women whose innovation, resilience, and leadership are shaping the future of Africa,” said Irene Ochem, AWIEF Founder and CEO.

“Our 2025 finalists embody the transformative role women entrepreneurs play in creating a more sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous Africa.”

This year’s finalists were selected by an international panel of judges from a highly competitive pool of outstanding nominees spanning diverse sectors, from technology and agriculture to energy, creative industries, and social entrepreneurship.

Their journeys exemplify the resilience, ingenuity, and leadership of African women shaping the future of the continent.

Here are the finalists:

Young Entrepreneur Award

• Norah Kimathi – Kenya
• Enyo Kossiwa Midjresso-Amouzou – Togo
• Chisom Victory Okorie – Nigeria

Empowerment Award

• Mathildah Amollo – Kenya
• Naima Mohamed – Somalia
• Mampho Sotshongaye – South Africa

Energy Entrepreneur Award

• Chenez Henderson – South Africa
• Rufaro Marufu – Zimbabwe
• Nidal Tafah – Morocco

Creative Industry Award

• Mahlet Afework – Ethiopia
• Stella Ndekile – Nigeria
• Soraya da Piedade – Angola

Social Entrepreneur Award

• Farana Boodhram – South Africa
• Naom Monari – Kenya
• Barbara Nabigambo – Uganda

Agri Entrepreneur Award

• Linda Davis – Kenya
• Ruth Ede – Nigeria
• Millicent Okumu – Kenya
• Josephine Takundwa – Zimbabwe

Tech Entrepreneur Award

• Vivian Arinaitwe – Uganda
• Maryanne Gichanga – Kenya
• Naledi Magowe – Botswana

Recognizing Africa’s Women Leaders

The AWIEF Awards continue to champion women-led innovation and enterprise across Africa, celebrating women who are not only creating successful businesses but also making a positive social and economic impact in their communities and beyond.

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