The 14th edition of the African Leadership Magazine Persons of the Year (POTY) Awards is unfolding in the heart of Casablanca, Morocco, amidst the grandeur of the Marriott Hotel. Africa’s finest policymakers, business leaders, and visionaries are coming together to mark this prestigious occasion. Themed “Inclusive Leadership for an Interconnected Africa: New Paradigms for Future Realities,” the 2025 edition is emphasising the crucial role of progressive leadership in shaping the continent’s future.
Taking place from 21st to 22nd February 2025, the POTY Awards are uniting an illustrious assembly of dignitaries, including President Andry Rajoelina of Madagascar, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, Prime Minister of Uganda, and former Tanzanian President Dr. Jakaya Kikwete, who is serving as the Chair of the Advisory Board of the African Leadership Organisation. Influential leaders such as Senator Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State, Nigeria, along with esteemed business executives, are participating in this landmark event, reaffirming Africa’s commitment to inclusive governance, economic innovation, and sustainable development.
President Andry Rajoelina, who is receiving the African Political Leader of the Year 2024 award, is delivering a rousing keynote address. A testament to his visionary leadership, he is highlighting Madagascar’s economic transformation, infrastructural advancements, and commitment to environmental sustainability. His words are resonating deeply, inspiring leaders across the continent to adopt policies that promote inclusivity and connectivity.
Former President Jakaya Kikwete is also delivering a compelling keynote, drawing on the wisdom of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere to stress the power of unity. He is spotlighting the potential of initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the digital economy in redefining Africa’s global competitiveness. His advocacy for youth empowerment and gender inclusion is striking a chord, reinforcing the need for leadership that mirrors the continent’s diversity.
The event is providing a platform for action through its roundtable sessions. The Africa Ministerial Roundtable on Regional Integration and Development Cooperation, moderated by H.E. Rindra Rabarinirinarison, Madagascar’s Minister of Economy and Finance, is fostering dynamic discussions. Insights from African Development Bank Vice President Prof. Kevin Urama and other distinguished panellists are exploring collaborative strategies for economic resilience and infrastructural synergy across Africa.
Another highlight is the African Educational Leadership Fireside Chat, led by Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Vice-Chancellor of Makerere University, Uganda. The session is examining innovative models to bridge Africa’s educational gaps and align academic curricula with industrial demands.
Honouring Africa’s Changemakers
At the heart of the POTY Awards is the celebration of excellence. This year’s honourees are showcasing remarkable strides in governance, business, and social impact, and they include;
- H.E. Andry Rajoelina (President, Madagascar) – African Political Leader of the Year
- 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
- H.E. Sen. Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State, Nigeria – African Outstanding Good Governance Champion Award
- 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
Each award recipient is embodying excellence in their respective fields, setting new standards for Africa’s future. Their stories of resilience, innovation, and transformation are standing as testaments to the power of dedicated leadership.
Beyond the awards and discussions, POTY 2025 is providing a powerful networking hub, where business leaders are engaging in high-level discussions on investment opportunities, cross-border partnerships, and policy reforms. The event’s closing session, enriched by cultural performances and vibrant interactions, is reinforcing the essence of a united Africa.
As the curtains are closing on POTY 2025, one message is emerging clearly: Africa’s future is hinging on leadership that embraces inclusivity, fosters collaboration, and harnesses the continent’s untapped potential. The discourse sparked in Casablanca is shaping policies and innovations in the years to come, ensuring that Africa remains a formidable force on the global stage.
The POTY Awards are continuing to be more than just a ceremony—they are becoming a movement and a resounding call for excellence in leadership and governance. As we are looking ahead to the next edition, one question is lingering: Who is emerging as the next torchbearer of Africa’s transformational journey?
