Three entrepreneurs from Nigeria, Kenya, and Egypt emerged top winners at the 2023 Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) Prize Competition.
Dr. Ikpeme Neto from Nigeria took home the first prize, Thomas Njeru from Kenya secured the second place, and Ayman Bazaraa from Egypt clinched the third position.
The Africa’s Business Heroes Prize Competition, supported by the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Philanthropy, recognizes and rewards African entrepreneurs who are making a positive impact on their communities.
At a grand finale event held in Kigali, Rwanda, the finalists presented their innovative businesses to a panel of esteemed judges including Dr. Diane Karusisi, CEO of Bank of Kigali; Ibukun Awosika, Founder and CEO of The Chair Centre Group; and Joe Tsai, Chairman of Alibaba Group.
The top three Africa’s Business Heroes, Dr. Ikpeme Neto, CEO and Founder, Wellahealth Technologies (Nigeria) who came 1st place was also awarded $300,000 while Mr. Thomas Njeru, CEO and Co-Founder, Pula Advisors Limited (Kenya) in 2nd place went with a $250,000 and while Mr. Ayman Bazaraa, CEO and Co-Founder, Sprints.ai (Egypt) came 3rd winning $150,000.
Their businesses have collectively created over 123,000 direct and indirect jobs contributing to the transformative power of entrepreneurship in Africa.
Apart from the three final winners, the top 10 contestants received US$100,000 in prize funding from ABH. The organizers also say an extra US$10,000 will also be allocated to each of the top 10 finalists for post-competition training programs.
According to Jason Pau, Executive Director of International Programs, Jack Ma Foundation, “The winners of this year’s ABH competition embody bold ambition and innovation, exemplifying the true essence of entrepreneurial spirit and a deep commitment to addressing societal challenges. The judges recognized them for their remarkable ability to turn challenges into opportunities, unwavering commitment to community betterment, and innovative approaches to solving pressing issues. Their resilience, passion and impactful contributions make them not just business leaders, but true champions of change.”
“I am deeply honored to be named this year’s Africa’s Business Heroes winner. This award energizes my commitment to driving positive change through innovation. I extend heartfelt gratitude to ABH for empowering entrepreneurs like me, and I am dedicated to shaping a brighter future for our continent through entrepreneurship. I am excited for the recognition of Wellahealth Technologies’ work, and grateful for my team, family and the ABH team for making this impact in healthcare across Africa possible,” said Dr.Ikpeme Neto, CEO and Founder, Wellahealth Technologies, ABH 2023 First Prize Winner.
