Earlier this December in Kigali, Rwanda, I arrived expecting a routine business event. Instead, the grand finale of Africa's Business Heroes (ABH) Awards 2025 proved to be a turning point. The moment the 10 finalists stepped onto the stage, their stories transformed the room from formal to electrifying.
These young entrepreneurs aren't just pitching numbers; they're tackling real challenges. There was the founder revolutionizing sustainable agriculture with solar-powered irrigation. A team digitizing healthcare access in remote communities. A disruptor building fintech tools that empower microentrepreneurs. Each presentation blended clear vision with real-world impact, reminding everyone that innovation in Africa is reshaping the future.
Data shows startups in Africa attracted over $4Â billion in funding this year, and platforms like ABH are amplifying that momentum. For global citizens and investors alike, Kigali sent a powerful message: the next wave of tech and social change is coming from these dynamic founders.
Walking away from the Kigali Convention Centre, I felt energized. These ABH finalists aren't just businesses—they're catalysts sparking hope and progress. As we head into 2026, keep an eye on these changemakers. Their journeys are just beginning, and their impact will ripple across continents.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
