Tag: growth

Junior Achievement (JA) Africa (https://JA-Africa.org) successfully concluded the 15th edition of the JA Africa COY Competition, held from December 3–5, 2025, in Abuja, Nigeria, bringing together Africa's brightest young entrepreneurs to showcase innovative business solutions aligned with the theme “ACT! Action for Climate Transformation.” The continental finals convened student companies from across Africa who had progressed through national JA Company Program competitions to compete across six innovation tracks: Innovation & Technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Financial Technology (FinTech), Digital Media & Creation, Renewable Energy, and Circular Economy & Sustainability.

Following three days of dynamic pitching, mentorship engagement, exhibitions, and rigorous judging, Nigeria's Smartgenix was crowned the overall Company of the Year 2025 for demonstrating exceptional innovation, execution strength, and high-impact potential. Mauritius' Plantura claimed Second Place, while Uganda's Renewablock secured Third Place, rounding out the podium with solutions focused on sustainability and inclusive development. As the continental champion, Smartgenix will proceed to represent Africa at the global finals of the De La Vega Global Entrepreneurship Award, where it will compete against winning teams from other regions for a grand prize of US $15,000.

Additional recognitions were distributed among other deserving teams, thanks to the generous support of various sponsors, including FedEx, PMIEF, FirstBank Nigeria, Delta Air Lines, Bank of America, Kuda Microfinance Bank, Boeing, and Entrepreneurs' Organization.

Summary of Signature Award Winners:

• FedEx Global Possibilities Award: XeroLabs, Ghana
• PMIEF Best Application of Project Management Award: Kwakhanya PlantIQ, Eswatini
• FirstBank Nigeria CEO Entrepreneurship Award: Plantura, Mauritius

Summary of Branded Award Winners:

• Delta Air Lines Girls LEAD! Award: 16 girls awarded: Matse Takitsi, Fakudze Temantolo Siphesihle, Dlamini Gcinile Lenhle, Dhristi Gooroochurn, Ameydee Shalinee Chocken, Yezhilly Gopaulen, Lashna Gungabissoon, Ihimbazwe Niyikora Kevine, Uwayo Ange Kevine, Abarurema Hirwa Emma Reponse, Kendy Neilla Gisa, Atuhaire Gabriella Kusiima, Comfort Musukuma, Grace Chilinda, Ndanji Nanyangwe, and Wana Sanyikosa
• Bank of America Best Financial Performance Award: Renewablock, Uganda
• Kuda Young Entrepreneurs Award: Kwakhanya PlantIQ, Eswatini
• Boeing Sustainable Innovation Award: XeroLabs, Ghana
• Entrepreneurs' Organizations Rising Leader Award: Ameydee Chocken, CEO of Plantura, Mauritius

Reflecting on the success of COY 2025, Simi Nwogugu, President and CEO of JA Africa, said, “The creativity, courage, and solution-driven mindset we witnessed at COY 2025 remind us why Africa's youth are our greatest asset. Through entrepreneurship education, we are not just preparing young people for the future of work; we are empowering them to lead climate action, create jobs, and build resilient communities across the continent.”

The competition concluded with the JA Africa Stakeholder Convening held on December 5 in Abuja under the theme “Unlocking Africa's Youth Dividend: Radical Pathways for Inclusive Skills, Entrepreneurship, and Employment Systems.” The high-level gathering brought together policymakers, educators, private sector leaders, philanthropic institutions, and development partners to catalyze strategic collaborations aimed at strengthening entrepreneurship education, expanding skills pathways, and scaling youth employment systems across Africa.

COY is anchored in the JA Company Program, which equips young people aged 14–17 with hands-on experience in business creation, financial management, teamwork, leadership, and venture pitching. As youth unemployment continues to pose a major development challenge across the continent, programs such as COY remain essential in bridging education to enterprise creation, equipping young people not only to seek employment but to become job creators and innovators within their communities. Alumni of the program across Africa have gone on to establish registered businesses, secure international scholarships and fellowships, and lead social and technology ventures.

The 15th edition of the JA Africa COY was made possible through the generous support of its partners: Headline Sponsors – FedEx, Project Management Institute Educational Foundation (PMIEF), and FirstBank Nigeria; Platinum Sponsors – Delta Air Lines, Bank of America, and Kuda Microfinance Bank; Gold Sponsors – Boeing and the Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO); and Media Partner – What Media Group

Media Contact:
Ellen Ukpi
Director, Marketing & Communications
Junior Achievement Africa
Email: ellen.ukpi@ja-africa.org

JA Africa:
Junior Achievement (JA) Africa is one of the largest and most impactful youth-serving NGOs on the continent, reaching over 1.5 million young people annually across 23 countries. Through hands-on learning experiences in entrepreneurship, work readiness, financial literacy, and STEM education, JA Africa equips young people with the skills and mindset to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy. JA Africa's mission is to prepare and inspire Africa's youth to become ethical leaders, job creators, and agents of change who drive sustainable development across the continent.

FedEx Corp:
FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) provides customers and businesses worldwide with a broad portfolio of transportation, e-commerce, and business services. With annual revenue of $89 billion, the company offers integrated business solutions utilizing its flexible, efficient, and intelligent global network. Consistently ranked among the world's most admired and trusted employers, FedEx inspires its more than 500,000 employees to remain focused on safety, the highest ethical and professional standards, and the needs of their customers and communities. FedEx is committed to connecting people and possibilities around the world responsibly and resourcefully, with a goal to achieve carbon-neutral operations by 2040. To learn more, please visit Fedex.com/about.

PMIEF (Project Management Institute Educational Foundation):
For 35 years, PMIEF has helped put youth on the path to success by incorporating project management skills into their daily lives. Our goal is to forge partnerships with nonprofit organizations that support and prepare youth for success by offering project management expertise, resources, and volunteers to aid them in making their dreams a reality. www. PMI. org/pmi-educational-foundation (http://apo-opa.co/3MOeLa7)

Delta Air Lines:
Delta Air Lines is a major United States airline headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, operating nine hubs, with Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport serving as its largest. Together with its regional subsidiaries under the Delta Connection brand, the airline operates more than 5,400 flights daily and serves 325 destinations in 52 countries across six continents. Delta is a founding member of the SkyTeam alliance, expanding its global network, and is the second‑oldest operating commercial airline in the U.S. The airline ranks first globally in revenue and brand value among major airlines and consistently leads industry performance rankings, including The Wall Street Journal's 2022–2024 airline rankings and Condé Nast Traveler's 2024 Readers' Choice Awards for Best Airlines in the U.S.

Delta Air Lines is committed to empowering young people around the world through education and global citizenship programs. Its long-standing partnership with JA Africa expands access to STEM learning, leadership development, and real-world career exposure for Africa's youth. https://www.Delta.com/MEA/en/about-delta/overview

First Bank Nigeria:
FirstBank of Nigeria Limited is the premier commercial bank in Nigeria, with a history of over 130 years of providing dependable and reliable financial services. As a leading financial services provider in Sub-Saharan Africa, FirstBank has consistently supported inclusive economic development by enabling individuals, businesses, and communities to achieve their financial goals. It offers a comprehensive range of retail and corporate banking services, backed by an extensive network of branches and digital channels that ensure seamless banking experiences for millions of customers across Africa and beyond. FirstBank is a member of the FBN Holdings Plc group.  www.FirstBankNigeria.com/

Bank of America:
Bank of America is one of the world's leading financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services. Bank of America is a global leader in wealth management, corporate and investment banking and trading across a broad range of asset classes, serving corporations, governments, institutions and individuals around the world. The company serves clients through operations across the United States, its territories and more than 35 countries. Bank of America Corporation stock (NYSE: BAC) is listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

Visit BofA Fast Facts for more information about the company.

Kuda Microfinance Bank:
Kuda Microfinance Bank is a CBN-licensed subsidiary of Kuda Technologies, a fintech company on a mission to make financial services accessible, affordable, and rewarding for every African on the planet.

Founded in 2019 by Babs Ogundeyi and Musty Mustapha, Kuda offers a modern alternative to traditional finance by delivering free money transfers, instant credit, savings tools, and business banking through digital channels.

The company has raised over $90 million from institutional investors, including Valar Ventures and Target Global, and it serves more than 7 million customers across Nigeria. Kuda.com/

Boeing:
As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing's diverse team is committed to innovating for the future and living the company's core values of safety, quality and integrity.

Boeing's relationship with the Middle East extends back to 1945. Since then, Boeing has established a number of offices across the region, first in Riyadh in 1982, then a dedicated Boeing Defense, Space and Security office in Abu Dhabi in 1999, a regional headquarters in Dubai in 2005, an office in Doha in 2010, and a new office in Kuwait City in 2021. In addition, Boeing has field service teams across the region and two distribution centers for airplane spare parts in Dubai. For further information, please visit: www.Boeing.com

Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO):
The Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO) is the world's largest membership network created by entrepreneurs, for entrepreneurs, everywhere. Since 1987, EO has been supporting the world's leading builders of business to realize more of their potential by fostering connection, strengthening leadership, and creating belonging across industries and borders. EO exists with a clear purpose: to move the world forward by unlocking the full potential of entrepreneurs.

Its mission is engaging entrepreneurs to learn and grow, and its vision is to build the world's most influential community of entrepreneurs.

Nearly 20,000 members across more than 220 chapters in 80 countries make up EO's global network. EO members are founders and owners of thriving businesses with a median revenue of over US $5 million, representing diverse industries and regions around the world. They connect through local and global experiences that go beyond business to holistically support the whole entrepreneur.

For more information or to get involved, please visit: EONetwork.org.

What Media Group:
What Media Group is a holding company focused on strategic investments in Africa's media and entertainment sectors. The group identifies high-growth opportunities across the continent's rapidly expanding media landscape and provides financial investment, strategic guidance,- and operational support to innovative companies. With a commitment to both commercial growth and social impact, What Media Group prioritizes brands that elevate local talent, strengthen cultural expression, and contribute to the sustainable development of Africa's creative industries. www.WhatMediaGroup.com/
 

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Stronger cooperation among Global South nations is becoming increasingly urgent as countries seek new pathways to accelerate development, expand trade and strengthen long-term economic resilience. For Africa, strengthened ties among Global South nations is particularly valuable, offering a viable solution to unlocking the continent's natural and mineral wealth and allowing the continent to move beyond fragmented growth and toward coordinated strategies that deliver tangible results.

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) - represented by Leoncio Amada NZE, Executive President of the AEC for CEMAC and Vice President of Equatorial Guinea's National Council on Economic and Social Development - underscored the need for a more inclusive and cooperative approach among Global South nations during the Third Global South Think Tanks Dialogue, held in Shanghai from December 2-4, 2025. During the event, Amada NZE highlighted how strengthened trade networks, partnerships and technology transfer can unlock long-term and sustainable growth across the continent, with the shift from aid to trade serving as a cornerstone of the continent's future development.

Despite being one of the continent's richest energy and mineral regions, CEMAC countries have long-struggled with attracting the requisite foreign investment, largely due to ineffective fiscal policies, strict forex regulations and barriers to regional trade. Examples include the implementation of stricter rules on currency transfers and payments by the Bank of Central African States in 2022. These challenges have not only served as a deterrent to foreign investment but impacted regional energy trade, cross-border projects and multi-lateral business exchange. This comes as many regional nations implement bold production goals with a view to using energy development as a catalyst for economic growth. In the oil and gas sector, Gabon targets 220,000 barrels per day (bpd), the Republic of Congo is aiming for 500,000 bpd, Equatorial Guinea is advancing gas monetization while Cameroon is pursuing new field developments. Nations are also pursuing accelerated energy and power developments, striving for enhanced energy and fuel security.

Enhanced trade frameworks, harmonized standards and improved logistics systems will help African nations achieve these goals by promoting free movement of services and people, strengthening economic ties and building more resilient energy systems across the continent. This would also serve as a vehicle for foreign direct investment, promoting forays by international players and driving projects forward in energy, mining and infrastructure development. As such, Amada NZE called for the dismantling of structural barriers that hinder growth, stressing the importance of regional energy cooperation as a core pillar of Africa's development strategy. By fostering platforms for business, research and cultural exchange, Amada NZE emphasized that Global South countries can accelerate their development trajectories and achieve shared prosperity.

Amada NZE also highlighted the need to move beyond traditional aid-driven models, underscoring the importance of building self-reliant economies anchored by trade, private-sector participation, innovation and homegrown industrial capabilities. For Africa, this means transitioning toward development frameworks that promote entrepreneurship, regional value creation and investment-driven growth. Meanwhile, as the Global South increases its share of global economic output, partnerships with global allies remain essential. Technology providers, financial institutions and strategic investors play a critical role in supporting African nations as they expand energy access, diversify revenue streams and modernize industrial bases. Stronger collaboration between African countries and global partners will help advance large-scale infrastructure projects, improve technical capabilities and accelerate digital transformation - elements vital to bridging development gaps and strengthening long-term stability.

“The AEC's engagement in Shanghai reflects its ongoing commitment to ensuring Africa has a strong voice in shaping global development agendas. By championing cooperation, trade expansion and regional energy integration, the Chamber continues to advocate for reforms that will unlock opportunity, enhance resilience and support the continent's rise as a competitive economic force within the Global South,” says Amada NZE.

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Tripoli will host the fourth annual Libya Energy & Economic Summit (LEES) 2026 from January 24-26, 2026, in an expanded three-day format designed to fast-track infrastructure development and unlock large-scale investment required to drive Libya's next phase of energy growth. Organized by Energy Capital & Power (ECP) (https://EnergyCapitalPower.com) and officially endorsed by the Office of the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Oil & Gas, the National Oil Corporation (NOC) and the Renewable Energy Authority of Libya, this year's summit takes place under the theme Infrastructure & Investment Driving Energy Growth.

LEES 2026 will spotlight the infrastructure projects underpinning Libya's production ambitions, from the modernization of oilfields to the expansion of pipelines, refineries and export facilities. Central to the agenda is Libya's renewed upstream momentum following the 2025 exploration bidding round – its first in 17 years – which offered 22 on- and offshore blocks across prolific basins such as Sirte, Murzuq and Ghadames. The summit will provide dedicated sessions for investors, international oil companies (IOCs), financing partners and engineering firms to examine these opportunities and align with national development priorities aimed at raising oil production toward 2 million barrels per day.

Join industry leaders at the Libya Energy & Economic Summit 2026 in Tripoli and explore investment opportunities in one of North Africa's most dynamic energy markets. LEES 2026 offers a premier platform for partnerships, innovation and sector growth. Visit www.LibyaSummit.com to secure your participation. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

Natural gas and midstream infrastructure will feature prominently, with discussions set to cover export-oriented gas development, associated gas capture to curb flaring, and domestic power generation improvements. The technical program will dive into engineering requirements for upstream rehabilitation, digitalized operations, pipeline expansion and modular processing facilities. Renewable energy infrastructure – including large-scale solar initiatives like the 500 MW Sadada solar project – will also be in the spotlight as Libya advances plans to diversify its energy portfolio.

The summit brings together major international operators and investors – including Eni, TotalEnergies, Repsol, OMV and ConocoPhillips– alongside global service companies such as SLB, Halliburton and Baker Hughes. Key institutional players including the American Chamber of Commerce in Libya, EnerGeo Alliance and the Libyan Council for Oil, Gas and Renewable Energy, will support engagement around local content, SME development and investment facilitation.

By strengthening cooperation between government institutions, IOCs, financiers and service providers, LEES 2026 aims to catalyze Libya's infrastructure renewal – spanning exploration development, processing, transport and renewable integration. With over 48 billion barrels of proven oil reserves and 53 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, and with major companies re-entering the market, Libya is positioned to reassert itself as a critical energy hub connecting Africa and Europe.

“This year's summit is designed to convert investor attention into tangible infrastructure progress – ensuring that capital, expertise and technology are deployed directly into projects that modernize Libya's energy systems and support long-term economic stability,” says James Chester, CEO, ECP.

Through collaboration, capacity-building and targeted investment partnerships, LEES 2026 underscores Libya's commitment to using infrastructure development as the cornerstone of sustainable energy growth and economic revitalization.

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Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) (www.AfricaFC.org), the continent's leading infrastructure solutions provider, today announced the inauguration of the expanded Cabeolica Wind Farm and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Cabo Verde- an achievement made possible through AFC's catalytic €55million bridge financing provided in 2024. The ceremony, officiated by Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva, marks a major step forward in the country's renewable energy ambitions.

AFC's early financing enabled rapid implementation, bringing the expansion and BESS online sooner to enhance grid stability, support renewable integration, and advance Cabo Verde's emissions-reduction and energy-security objectives. The expansion delivers 13.5 MW of new wind capacity on Santiago alongside 26 MWh of battery storage across four islands, significantly enhancing the stability and resilience of Cabo Verde's national grid. The BESS is already contributing to improved frequency regulation and higher renewable penetration, reducing curtailment and strengthening energy security across the archipelago.

Since 2010, AFC has been a majority investor in Cabeolica S.A, supporting its evolution into one of Cabo Verde's strongest corporate institutions and the first commercial-scale renewable PPP in sub-Saharan Africa. Over the past decade, the company's 25.5MW wind farms across four islands have generated more than 800,000 MWh of affordable electricity, contributing approximately 25% of the country's total power generation while offsetting over 560,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions. With this new phase, Cabeolica further consolidates its role as a cornerstone of the country's clean-energy system.

The newly inaugurated BESS, expected to reach nearly 30 MW of storage capacity upon final completion in January 2026, marks a significant advancement in stabilising Cabo Verde's grid, allowing greater integration of intermittent renewables and reducing dependency on imported fossil fuels. AFC's bridge financing was pivotal in fast-tracking construction activities and ensuring alignment with the Government's clean-energy delivery timelines, while long-term financing from senior lenders, including the African Development Bank and the European Investment Bank, is being finalised.

“From the early days of the Cabeolica project to this milestone inauguration, AFC's mission has remained unwavering: to catalyse renewable energy solutions that enhance the reliability and resilience of power systems across Africa,” said Samaila Zubairu, President & CEO of Africa Finance Corporation. “Our innovative financing accelerated this expansion, and the successful integration of new wind capacity with one of the continent's most advanced grid-stabilising battery storage systems stands as a clear testament to AFC's position as Africa's leading infrastructure solutions provider,” he added.

Ayotunde Anjorin, Chairman of Cabeólica and Chief Financial Officer of AFC said: “As the first renewable energy commercial scale PPP in sub-Saharan Africa, Cabeólica is again proud to partner with AFC to lead this transformative expansion project comprising additional wind capacity and battery energy storage. This project underscores the Cabeólica's deep commitment to delivering reliable, clean energy infrastructure in line with national goals and priorities and continues to set a replicable model for the region.”

AFC is committed to accelerating Africa's energy transition, by deploying capital, expertise, and innovative solutions that strengthen grids, enhance energy security, and drive climate-resilient growth across the continent. Most recently, the Corporation's portfolio company, Infinity Power, Africa's largest independent renewable energy provider, reached financial close on the 200MW Ras Ghareb Wind Farm in Egypt, which will power over 300,000 homes.

Media Enquiries:
Yewande Thorpe
Communications
Africa Finance Corporation
Mobile: +234 1 279 9654
Email: yewande.thorpe@africafc.org

About AFC:
AFC was established in 2007 to be the catalyst for pragmatic infrastructure and industrial investments across Africa. AFC's approach combines specialist industry expertise with a focus on financial and technical advisory, project structuring, project development, and risk capital to address Africa's infrastructure development needs and drive sustainable economic growth.

Eighteen years on, AFC has developed a track record as the partner of choice in Africa for investing and delivering on instrumental, high-quality infrastructure assets that provide essential services in the core infrastructure sectors of power, natural resources, heavy industry, transport, and telecommunications. AFC has 47 member countries and has invested over US$17 billion in 36 African countries since its inception.

www.AfricaFC.org

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The TikTok (www.TikTok.com) community has spoken, and Africa has crowned its newest icons. The 2025 TikTok Awards Sub-Saharan Africa lit up Johannesburg on 6 December, marking a powerful moment in the continent's rapidly evolving creator landscape. Under the bold theme “New Era, New Icons,” TikTok honoured the creators who are reshaping culture, storytelling, and digital influence across the region.

Guests were treated to an electrifying night of glitz, glamour, and unforgettable performances from top African talents, including Ciza, Lord Kez, Thuli P, DJ Fif_Laa and Thabsie. Popular creator and entertainer Bontle Modiselle-Moloi commanded the stage as host, bringing unstoppable energy to the awards, while Red Carpet presenters Keegan Gordon and Zayaan Noorani captured every moment of fashion and flair. South African favourite Mihlali Ndamase made a surprise appearance to present the Video of the year award, while famous sports athlete Akani Simbine presented the Sport Creator of the Year Award.

Supported by partner brands like NIVEA, inDrive, Coca-Cola, PEP and Dis-chem, the event highlighted the diversity of the region's creator landscape. Winners crowned hailed from Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, and Tanzania, reflecting TikTok's commitment to elevating the voices shaping entertainment, education, and social impact across the continent.

Reflecting on the evening's festivities, Boniswa Sidwaba, TikTok's Head of Content Operations for Sub-Saharan Africa said, “Tonight's ceremony was a gathering of the trailblazers who have redefined what it means to be a creator in Africa. From Sokoto to Nairobi, and Accra to Pretoria, we honoured the creators who turned 60-second clips into cultural movements. We are honoured to celebrate them as they amplify their voices and take their stories from Africa to the world.”

Audiences across Africa will get another chance to experience the glamour, performances, and emotional acceptance moments when the ceremony is rebroadcast exclusively on TikTok LIVE on 11 December at 20:00 SAST on the @ tiktok.africa (http://apo-opa.co/49Xn8tI) account.

And the 2025 Winners are:

Creator of the Year (Sponsored by NIVEA)

Winner: Raja'atu Muhammed Ibrahim @ diaryofanortherncook (https://apo-opa.co/48nHsTU) (Nigeria)

Taking the night's most prestigious title, @ diaryofanortherncook (https://apo-opa.co/48nHsTU) was recognised for her mastery of visual storytelling through food with the rich sounds of northern music. Based in Sokoto, the creator has captivated a global audience by documenting Northern Nigerian cuisine with that kind of cinematic flair that draws global attention to Nigerian food.

Storyteller of the Year (Sponsored by inDrive)

Winner: Brian Nwana @ briannwana (https://apo-opa.co/4poE4hp) (Nigeria)

Based in Abuja, @ briannwana (https://apo-opa.co/4poE4hp) claimed the Storyteller of the Year award through his food content. From street interviews to compelling personal narratives woven into his food adventures, Brian has a rare gift for capturing the human experience bite by bite. His content keeps audiences hooked from the first second to the last. His Guinness World Record (https://apo-opa.co/4pUqBxI) for the most fast-food restaurants visited in 24 hours is just the latest example of his bold, inventive approach to content.

Speaking while receiving his award, Brian Nwana said, “Every single creator is a storyteller. We all tell stories that help drive the local communities, our cities, and our countries, and when we do that we change the perception that the world has about us”.

Video of the Year

Winner: Fanuel John Masamaki @ zerobrainer0 (https://apo-opa.co/4oEfLuE) (Tanzania)

Tanzanian sports creator @ zerobrainer0 (https://apo-opa.co/4oEfLuE) makes a triumphant return, winning Video of the Year after securing Sports Creator of the Year in 2024. He has become a continent-wide fan favourite thanks to his signature beige blazer and his unique, silent comedy spin on football moments.

I am truly grateful to my fans and the love I have received from Tanzanians. Thank you so much . This win was for all of us." Said John Masamaki while receiving his award.

Rising Star of the Year

Winner: @ tunero_animations (http://apo-opa.co/4oEfMic) (Kenya)

The future of African storytelling is animated. Celebrating the next generation of talent, the Rising Star award went to Nairobi-based @ tunero_animations (http://apo-opa.co/4oEfMic), who has carved out a niche with animated characters like Bob Kichwa Ngumu, whose clever, sarcastic and stubborn traits resonate with Kenyans and the world.

• Runner-up: Esther Francis @ estherfrancisbackup (https://apo-opa.co/49Ze2N7) (Nigeria), adds a creative and relatable flair to health information that empowers users on the platform with credible information.

Social Impact Creator of the Year (Sponsored by Dis-chem)

Winner: Dejoke Ogunbiyi @ noositiwantiwa_ (https://apo-opa.co/4oEfNTi) (Nigeria)

Using the platform for good, @ Noositiwantiwa_ (https://apo-opa.co/4oEfNTi) is driving conversations that matter. From Ibadan, she tackles social issues with grace and impact, mobilising her community for positive change.

• Runner-up: Sinethemba Masinga @ ufarm_julia (https://apo-opa.co/3XGQ5CN) (South Africa) – A champion for agriculture and sustainability, proving that farming is the future.

Food Creator of the Year (Sponsored by Coca-Cola)

Winner: @ malumfoodie (https://apo-opa.co/3XCGNrz) (South Africa)

Pretoria's self-taught cook, @ malumfoodie (https://apo-opa.co/3XCGNrz) took home the trophy thanks to the flavour and fun his videos bring to the kitchen. His approachable recipes and charismatic delivery using South African street language called Spitori and native South African languages bring a fresh, entertaining twist to his recipes and meals.

“From my humble beginnings of Haamanskraal, to Soshanguve and to all of South Africa, now we are in Africa!”, says Malume Foodie, reflecting on the significance of the award.”

• Runner-up: Abena Amoakoaa Sintim-Aboagye @ chefabbys (https://apo-opa.co/4iMKnsM) (Ghana) – Showcasing the best of Ghanaian cuisine to the world with style. She was recently named amongst Time Magazine's 2025 list of the 1000 most influential creators in the World

Sports Creator of the Year

Winner: John Maingi Mbugua  @ zozasportscast (https://apo-opa.co/4ayvs3d) (Kenya)

From Nairobi to the world, the @ zozasportscast (https://apo-opa.co/4ayvs3d) team delivers football analysis with passion and precision. They represent a new wave of sports journalism, which is fan-led, authentic, and always on the ball.

“Winning isn't the finish line, it's fuel for the next chapter. Every piece of content, every discussion, every moment captured was driven by passion, and receiving this recognition means that passion is resonating far beyond my expectations.” Said John Mbugua as he received his award

• Runner-up: Victor Ademola @ ademolavictortv (https://apo-opa.co/3KEQrqv) (Nigeria) has kept the Super Eagles and global football conversation alive with energetic commentary.

Entertainment Creator of the Year (Sponsored by PEP)

Winner: Belove Olocha @ beloveolocha (https://apo-opa.co/493iAjx) (Nigeria)

A dominant force in content creation, Lagos-based @ beloveolocha (https://apo-opa.co/493iAjx) was awarded for her consistent ability to entertain and engage audiences with relatable movie content. She also stands out for incorporating her love for movies, sharing film moments and recommendations that resonate with her community.

• Runner-up: Jabulani Macdonald @ jabu_macdonald (https://apo-opa.co/44VGig1) (South Africa) is a staple of South Africa's entertainment scene, known for his quick wit and engaging presence.

Education Creator of the Year

Winner: Izzi Boye @ izziboye (https://apo-opa.co/4oRKXHi) (Nigeria)

Making tech accessible to the masses, @ izziboye (https://apo-opa.co/4oRKXHi) is the go-to guy for gadget reviews, hacks, and digital tips. He proves that TikTok is a powerful classroom for the digital age.

• Runner-up: @ michelle_expert (https://apo-opa.co/3KDvY5A) (South Africa) empowers her audience with expert advice and actionable insights from career development and financial literacy to personal growth and everyday decision-making.

Artist of the Year

Winner: Crown Uzama @ theycallmeshallipopipp (https://apo-opa.co/4pwc1gm) (Nigeria)

2025 was the year of the "Plutomania". Shallipopi (https://apo-opa.co/4pwc1gm), popularly referred to as "Pluto Presido” by his fans, “plutomanians”, dominated the soundwaves and the platform, with tracks that sparked viral challenges and became the soundtrack of the year across the continent.

The platform has also played a significant role in spreading culture through music in 2025. “Thank you, TikTok, for supporting all upcoming artists and giving them a spotlight to shine. “said 2025 Artist of the Year and “Laho” hit-maker, Shallipopi (https://apo-opa.co/4pwc1gm).

Additional Images: https://apo-opa.co/3MKll1k

About TikTok Awards: 
The TikTok Awards are our annual celebration of the most impactful and inspiring creators across Sub-Saharan Africa. This year's event will highlight the extraordinary ways our creators have engaged, inspired, and connected communities on and off TikTok.

About inDrive:
inDrive is a global mobility and urban services platform. The inDrive app has been downloaded over 360 million times, and has been named the second most downloaded mobility app for the third consecutive year. In addition to ride-hailing, inDrive provides an expanding list of services, including intercity transportation, delivery, and financial services. In 2023, inDrive launched New Ventures, a venture and M&A arm.

inDrive operates in 982 cities in 48 countries. Driven by its mission of challenging injustice, the company is committed to having a positive impact on the lives of one billion people by 2030. It pursues this goal both through its core business, which supports local communities via a fair pricing model; and through the work of its impact programs.

For more information visit http://inDrive.com

About Coca-Cola:
The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is a total beverage company with products sold in more than 200 countries and territories. Our company's purpose is to refresh the world and make a difference. We sell multiple billion-dollar brands across several beverage categories worldwide. Our portfolio of sparkling soft drink brands includes Coca Cola, Sprite and Fanta. Our water, sports, coffee and tea brands include Dasani, smartwater, vitaminwater, Topo Chico, BODYARMOR, Powerade, Costa, Georgia, Gold Peak and Ayataka. Our juice, value-added dairy and plant-based beverage brands include Minute Maid, Simply, innocent, Del Valle, fairlife and AdeS. We're constantly transforming our portfolio, from reducing sugar in our drinks to bringing innovative new products to market. We seek to positively impact people's lives, communities and the planet through water replenishment, packaging recycling, sustainable sourcing practices and carbon emissions reductions across our value chain. Together with our bottling partners, we employ more than 700,000 people, helping bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide.

Learn more at www.Coca-ColaCompany.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

About PEP:
PEP is the largest single retail brand in Southern Africa, with over 2,700 stores. Providing families with clothing, footwear, home, cellular and financial services at the lowest prices.

For more information, please visit www.PEPStores.com

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