The African Leadership Magazine Persons of the Year (POTY) 2025 Awards served as a defining platform to recognise outstanding African leadership. Among the distinguished honourees, H.E. Andry Rajoelina, President of Madagascar, was named African Political Leader of the Year 2024, securing 65.69% of the votes in an online poll. This landslide victory underscores the continent’s strong endorsement of his visionary leadership and transformative governance.
Since taking office, President Rajoelina has led transformative economic and social reforms, revitalising infrastructure, expanding access to education and healthcare, and enhancing Madagascar’s global influence.
At the awards ceremony in Casablanca, Morocco, he delivered a compelling keynote address, urging African nations to embrace inclusive leadership and interconnected development strategies. He emphasised that Africa’s progress hinges on:
- Strengthening regional trade and cooperation to drive economic growth
- Modernising infrastructure to enhance connectivity and productivity
- Managing resources sustainably for long-term prosperity
- Empowering youth and women as drivers of sustainable progress
Key Achievements of His Administration
- Economic Diversification: Strategic investments in agriculture, renewable energy, and tourism have strengthened Madagascar’s economic foundation.
- Infrastructure Development: Modernising transport and energy networks has significantly boosted economic efficiency.
- Education and Healthcare Expansion: Increased funding has improved access and quality nationwide.
- Environmental Sustainability: Madagascar has emerged as a global leader in biodiversity conservation and climate advocacy.
Beyond national achievements, President Rajoelina actively champions Africa’s collective prosperity. His engagement in the African Union, multilateral summits, and global partnerships reflects his commitment to advancing the continent’s strategic interests.
Other Notable Honourees at POTY 2025:
- H.E. Sen. Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State, Nigeria – African Outstanding Good Governance Champion Award
- Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, Prime Minister of Uganda – African Female Leader of the Year
- H.E. Diamantino Azevedo, Minister of Mineral Resources, Petroleum, and Gas, Angola – African Government Minister of the Year
- Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, Minister for Health, Uganda – African Public Health Leader of the Year
- Mr. Olusegun Alebiosu, Managing Director/CEO, First Bank of Nigeria Limited – African Banking Leadership & Excellence Award
- Dr. Seinye O.B. Lulu-Briggs, Executive Chairman, Moni Pulo Limited, Nigeria—African Philanthropist of the Year
- Mr. Israel Degfa, President, Kerchanshe Trading Plc, Ethiopia—Special African Business Leadership Commendation Award
President Rajoelina’s POTY 2025 recognition underscores his bold leadership and transformative policies, reinforcing his role as a catalyst for Africa’s progress. While the continent navigates future challenges and opportunities, leaders like H.E. Andry Rajoelina exemplify resilience, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to sustainable development.
The African Leadership Magazine remains dedicated to celebrating individuals reshaping Africa’s destiny. President Rajoelina’s award reaffirms his role as a beacon of progress and an inspiration for the next generation of African leaders.
African Leadership Magazine, with its international headquarters in London and offices across Africa, is a leading publication committed to shining a light on the achievements of Africa’s most exceptional leaders and organisations. The magazine takes pride in telling the African story from an authentic African perspective, celebrating success in governance, economic progress, social development, and innovation.
With a vision to inspire transformative leadership across the continent, it features thought-provoking commentary and in-depth analysis that emphasise progress, innovation, and inclusion. By fostering dialogue around key issues and celebrating the continent’s trailblazers, African Leadership Magazine serves as both a platform and catalyst for reshaping Africa’s narrative on the global stage.
For more information, contact
The Group Editor,
King Richard Igimoh
king.richards@africanleadership.co.uk
editor@africanleadership.co.uk
