The ten finalists underscore the diversity of entrepreneurs in the
competition, representing eight countries including Ethiopia, Gambia,
Kenya, Mauritius, Nigeria, Senegal, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. The top ten,
which includes three woman-owned businesses, work in a range of
industries, from software to entertainment to agribusiness.
“The winners of the 2011 Africa Awards represent a diversity of
backgrounds, industries, and geographies, but they also share a common
determination in building and scaling a successful company,” said Matt
Bannick, Managing Partner of Omidyar Network. “We congratulate each of
the winners, and welcome them to the Awards’ growing network of
business leaders who are fostering innovation, job creation, and
positive social impact from within Africa.”
To determine the winners, finalists gathered in Nairobi to present to
a prominent jury of African business leaders and investors. The panel
was chaired by Malik Fal, Managing Director of Endeavor. The jury also
included some of Africa’s most prominent entrepreneurs and investors,
including Kamal Budhabhatti, CEO of Craft Silicon and Grand Prize
Winner of the 2010 Africa Awards; James Manyika, Director of the
McKinsey Global Institute; Ayisi Makatiani, the CEO of Fanisi Capital;
and Tokunboh Ishmael, co-founder and Managing Director of Alitheia
Capital. The winners were evaluated on profitability; return on
investment and growth; long-term business strategy; leadership,
culture and values; investment in employees; innovation to address
market needs; and contribution to the community.
Africa Matters
