REFLECTING ON THE 6TH ABH SUMMIT AND GRAND FINALE
We closed out another milestone year at ABH with an unforgettable return to the Kigali Convention Centre (KCC) for the 6th ABH Summit and Grand Finale. Kigali has long been a hub of innovation and inspiration for us, making it the perfect setting for the two-day event. From the very start, it was clear we were in for meaningful conversations and impact stories from our Top 10 finalists that would leave a lasting mark.
Under the theme "AI – African Innovation, Insight and Impact," we wrapped up a year-long journey that began with nearly 20,000 applications from all corners of Africa and an intense selection process that took us through Cairo for the Semi-Finals. Finally, the Top 10 took center stage in Kigali, pitching their innovative businesses and demonstrating how African-led solutions are revolutionizing their industries.
Our esteemed panel of judges, including Dr. Diane Karusisi, CEO of Bank of Kigali and Ibukun Awosika, Founder of the Chair Centre, were joined for the first time by Fred Swaniker, Founder and CEO of Sand Technologies, who had previously served as an ABH Semi-Final judge. With sharp judgment, pointed questions, and even a little bit of humor, they led us through the pitches, Top 3 roundtables and to an impeccable awards ceremony.
And the 2024 Africa’s Business Heroes are…
Henri Ousmane Gueye from Senegal, Co-founder and CEO of EYONE, emerged as the grand prize winner, walking away with $300,000 for his groundbreaking work in digital health. Right behind him, Dr. Salma Bougarrani of Morocco, Co-founder and CEO of GREEN WATECH, secured $250,000, recognized for her innovations in sustainable water solutions. Rounding out the top three, Kenya’s Alexander Odhiambo, Founder and CEO of Solutech Limited, claimed $150,000, driving digital transformation across the continent. Each of these visionary entrepreneurs proved that African-led solutions are redefining industries and shaping the future.
Henri reflected on the moment, saying, “Winning the ABH Prize is an incredible honor. It validates our hard work and fuels our drive to continue solving critical challenges in Africa. This is just the beginning!”
As I reflect on this year’s journey, I’m immensely proud of the caliber of talent we witnessed. Each of our Top 10 finalists embodies the resilience, ambition and creativity that define Africa’s entrepreneurial spirit. Congratulations to Henri and all our finalists!
A dynamic showcase of thought leadership
Over two-days, we brought together 1,606 participants and hosted more than 50 distinguished speakers from 15 countries. Day 1’s ABH Summit set the tone with a powerhouse lineup, featuring prominent figures from the global business community and a strong representation of Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. The day was filled with masterclasses, live panels, podcast recordings, and our TED Talk-style ABHx presentations, addressing key issues across sectors. With immersive activities like the ABH Heroes’ Circle business ‘roast’ and the unique Networking in the Dark session, audience participation was elevated, creating engaging and insightful experiences throughout.
Among the many highlights was Ibukun Awosika’s keynote address, in which she championed the concept of 'African Intelligence' and the power of homegrown solutions, stating, 'Africa’s future will be shaped by those who see challenges as opportunities and take action.'
Looking forward, together
This edition of the Summit and Grand Finale held special significance as we announced Rwanda as the permanent host of the ABH Grand Finale for the next four years, continuing our 10-year mission of empowering African entrepreneurs. This milestone underscores both our enduring commitment to Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and Rwanda’s pivotal role within it. A special thank you to our partners at the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and Rwanda Convention Bureau (RCB) for their immense contribution to making this year’s event a success, and to the Bank of Kigali for their support. Together, we look forward to advancing this mission and creating more opportunities for African entrepreneurs to thrive.
The 2025 ABH call for applications is now open!
As we close the chapter on an extraordinary 2024 edition, we are thrilled to officially launch the 2025 call for applications! African entrepreneurs, this is your chance to showcase your vision, scale your impact and join the ranks of ABH’s growing network of changemakers. Apply now at ABH Official Website and take your business to the next level! It’s our time!
