The Africa Women Innovation & Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) has announced 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.
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.
The winners of the AWIEF Awards 2025 will be announced at awards ceremony and gala dinner which will take place during the AWIEF Conference, Exhibition and Awards, taking place on 30 – 31 October 2025 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), Cape Town, South Africa.
