Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH), the flagship philanthropic initiative of Alibaba Philanthropy and the Jack Ma Foundation, has unveiled the top 20 finalists for its 2025 competition, offering a share of the $1.5 million prize pool. This year’s selection process attracted a record-breaking 32,000 applications from all 54 African nations, highlighting the continent’s burgeoning entrepreneurial spirit.
The 2025 finalists represent a diverse array of sectors, including AgriTech, HealthTech, FinTech, EdTech, and SME digital solutions. Notably, the cohort features innovators from across the continent, such as Adriaan Kruger of nuvoteQ (South Africa), Baraka Chijenga of Kilimo Fresh Foods Africa Limited (Tanzania), Blandine Umuziranenge of Kosmotive (Rwanda), and Diana Gerald of NovFeed (Tanzania).
The competition’s grand finale is scheduled to take place in Kigali, Rwanda, under the theme “AI – Innovation, Vision, and African Impact.” Finalists will have the opportunity to pitch their ventures to a distinguished panel of judges, including Dr. Diane Karusisi (CEO, Bank of Kigali), Ibukun Awosika (Founder, The Chair Centre), and Fred Swaniker (Founder & CEO, Sand Technologies) (عرب فاوندرز).
In addition to the financial rewards, the top 10 finalists will receive mentorship, training, and global exposure, joining an elite community of Africa’s most impactful entrepreneurs. This initiative underscores ABH’s commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship across the continent.
For more information on the finalists and the competition, visit the official ABH website.
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