March | 2025
10 Most
Empowering
Business
Leaders to
Follow in 2025
The Rise of Tech Entrepreneurs Businesswomen Shaping Africa's Future in Digital Innova on From Local to Global How Businesswomen Shaping Africa's Future Are Expanding Con nental Brands
Dr. Huyam Salih African Union-InterAfrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) Director
Huyam Salih
Accelerating AU-IBAR’s Vision for a Sustainable Africa
EDITORS VIEW
Visionaries Shaping the Future of Business
T
he world of business is evolving at an unprecedented pace, driven by innovation, resilience, and visionary leadership. CIOLook in this special edition of, 10 Most Empowering Business Leaders to Follow in 2025, we shine a spotlight on individuals who are not only shaping industries but also redefining what it means to be a leader in the modern era. These extraordinary professionals are more than just executives; they are pioneers who challenge the status quo, embrace transformation, and empower those around them. From groundbreaking advancements in technology and finance to game-changing strategies in sustainability and social impact, their stories inspire action and demonstrate the power of purpose-driven leadership. What sets these leaders apart is their ability to navigate uncertainty, adapt to change, and foster environments where innovation thrives. They lead with vision, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to excellence—qualities that make them role models for aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals alike. As we step into 2025, the lessons from these influential leaders remind us that success is not just about growth and profitability but also about inspiring change, nurturing talent, and creating a lasting impact. Their journeys offer valuable insights into the future of business, and we are honored to share their stories with you. Happy Reading….
Ca Adewale
C OV E R STORY
Dr
Huyam Salih
Leading AU-IBAR’s Vision for a Sustainable Africa
ARTICLES The Rise of Tech Entrepreneurs Business women Shaping Africa's Future in Digital Innova on
20
16
From Local to Global How Businesswomen Shaping Africa's Future Are Expanding Con nental Brands
Pooja M Bansal Editor-in-Chief CONTENT
Deputy Editor Anish Miller Managing Editor Carl Adewale
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Featuring
Company Name
Brief
Anne-Marie Chidzero CIO
FSD Africa fsdafrica.org
Anne-Marie Chidzero has an extensive background in international development finance and has played a key role in advancing financial sector development across Africa.
Dorah Modise Regional Director, Africa
C40 Cities c40.org
Dorah Modise, with over 26 years of experience in environmental sustainability, international diplomacy, and government relations, played a pivotal role in advancing sustainable development policies.
Hein Venter Mining Sales Director
Michelin michelin.com
Hein Venter plays a crucial role in advancing the company's mining solutions, focusing on smart, safe, and sustainable operations.
Huyam Salih Director
African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources au-ibar.org
Huyam has more than 20 years of experience in planning, managing and leading livestock development using animal health interventions, disease risk assessment and prevention in Livestock value chains at national and global levels.
Kizito Okechukwu Executive Head
22 ON SLOANE 22onsloane.co
Kizito Okechukwu leads a team of highly specialized professionals, experts, technicians and mentors that help to leapfrog high impact Startups and SMEs to scale.
Michael Magoha Neurosurgeon
University of Nairobi uonbi.ac.ke
Michael Magoha has over 12 years of Neurosurgical experience and he is also passionate about teaching and Using technology to bridge the care gap.
Motshedisi Mathibe Head
Gibs gibs.co.za
Motshedisi Mathibe is an academic leader specializing in business management and entrepreneurship.
Nelly Mutula Global Head of People
Fuzu fuzu.com
Nelly Mutula has more than eight years of experience in leading and managing all aspects of human resources, talent acquisition, and employee development for the fastest growing online career platform in Africa.
Su-Ann Badenhorst Africa Marketing Lead
Deloitte deloitte.co.za
Su-Ann Badenhorst plays an important role in shaping the brand’s strategic direction, amplifying thought leadership, and driving marketing innovation across a global footprint.
Valerie Dabady Manager
African Development Bank afdb.org
Valerie Dabady has over nine years of experience in this role, working with traditional and emerging donors, as well as nonsovereign actors, such as philanthropic foundations and international institutions.
Dr. Huyam Salih African Union-InterAfrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) Director
Cover story
Dr
Huyam Salih
Leading AU-IBAR’s Vision for a Sustainable Africa
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Collaboration is a cornerstone of AUIBAR’s work. Dr. Salih has expanded partnerships with international organizations such as WOAH, FAO, and ILRI, enhancing AU-IBAR’s reach and impact
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10 Most Empowering Business Leaders to Follow in 2025
"To accelerate action for Africa’s livestock and fisheries, we must drive innovation, collaboration, and champion inclusivity."
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s the Director of the African Union-InterAfrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR), Dr. Huyam Salih is spearheading transformative change in Africa’s animal resource sectors, exemplifying the 2025 International Women's Day theme, "Accelerate Action," through her leadership and dedication to progress. With a vision that intertwines sustainability, economic growth, and technological advancement, she is redefining the role of AU-IBAR in ensuring Africa’s livestock, fisheries, and aquaculture industries thrive.
Dr. Salih’s leadership prioritizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating ecological, social, and economic factors to create a resilient and prosperous future. A key guiding policy in this transformation is the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), which provides a strategic framework for agricultural transformation, food security, and economic growth. Additionally, Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want serves as a cornerstone for AU-IBAR’s initiatives, ensuring that Africa’s animal resource sectors contribute meaningfully to continental goals of prosperity, environmental sustainability, and inclusive development. Under her guidance, AU-IBAR is ensuring that stakeholders across Africa are empowered to make informed decisions, driving regional integration, peace, and long-term development. By aligning its interventions with CAADP and Agenda 2063, AU-IBAR is strengthening the resilience of Africa’s animal resources sector, enhancing disease surveillance, promoting sustainable fisheries management, and fostering innovation to accelerate economic growth and food security across the continent. As the first female leader of AU-IBAR, Dr Salih is committed to fostering inclusivity, gender sensitivity, and youth engagement. She has strengthened initiatives that elevate women’s voices in veterinary science and agriculture, ensuring diverse perspectives in decision-making. By integrating feedback from stakeholders and promoting co-created solutions, her leadership has set a precedent for diversity-driven growth, reflecting Africa’s rich perspectives and talents. Advancing a Legacy of Impact for Africa’s Livestock and Fisheries Future With a legacy dating back to 1951, and integrated into the African Union’s Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment in 1965, AUIBAR has played a pivotal role in advancing Africa’s animal health and eradicating critical diseases like rinderpest.
Under Dr Salih’s leadership since 2023, the organization is leveraging this foundation to champion innovative solutions that address emerging challenges.
policies and technological advancements, positioning AUIBAR as a leader in sustainable livestock and fisheries management.
This progress over the years would not be possible without the invaluable support of numerous technical and financial partners, whose contributions have transformed our vision into reality. Their commitment has strengthened partnerships, enhanced veterinary epidemiology, and advanced climate-resilient agricultural practices, ensuring sustainable impact across the continent.
Strategic Vision and Policy Leadership
By promoting these initiatives, AU-IBAR is driving policies that empower youth and women, improve market access for pastoralists, and foster inclusive decision-making. Dr. Salih’s commitment to collaboration—both within Africa and on a global scale—continues to shape impactful
Dr Salih envisions AU-IBAR as a catalyst for Africa’s agricultural transformation, guided by strategic policies like the Animal Health Strategy for Africa (AHSA) and the Livestock Development Strategy for Africa (LiDeSA), Animal Welfare Strategy, Policy Framework and Reform Strategy for Fisheries and Aquaculture in Africa, and the Africa Blue Economy Strategy. These frameworks are strengthening governance frameworks that ensure food security and economic stability. Impactful Policy Reforms AU-IBAR has been instrumental in shaping Africa’s animal health policies, including the Animal Health Strategy for Africa (AHSA) and the Livestock Development Strategy for Africa (LiDeSA). Salih has led initiatives that reinforce integrated health governance through One Health, enhancing regional cooperation in managing animal diseases. The organization continues to develop training programs in veterinary epidemiology, food safety, and standard-setting procedures in line with global regulations, strengthening Africa’s capability in livestock and fisheries governance. Strengthening Global Collaborations Collaboration is a cornerstone of AU-IBAR’s work. Dr. Salih has expanded partnerships with international organizations such as the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), enhancing AU-IBAR’s reach and impact. Recent agreements with institutions like the African Leather and
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Under Dr. Salih’s leadership, the development of the Animal Resources Information System Version 3 (ARIS3) and the integration of digital tools like OneHealth Data and AfaData are set to enhance disease surveillance, fisheries management, and policy formulation.
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Leveraging Digital Tools for Data-Driven DecisionMaking AU-IBAR has been at the forefront of data-driven decisionmaking in Africa’s animal health sector. The Animal Resources Information System (ARIS), now in its third version (ARIS3), has undergone significant evolution over the years under the leadership of former AU-IBAR Directors, with its initial development occurring before Dr. Salih’s tenure. Although ARIS3 has not yet been operationalized, it marks a crucial step in advancing the system’s capabilities. Under Dr. Salih’s leadership, the integration of digital tools such as OneHealth Data and the African Fisheries and Aquaculture Database (AfaData) is set to further enhance disease surveillance, fisheries management, and policy formulation. By embracing emerging technologies, AU-
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The organization continues to develop training programs in veterinary epidemiology, food safety, and standard-setting procedures in line with global regulations, strengthening Africa’s capability in livestock and fisheries governance. I have led initiatives that reinforce integrated health governance through One Health, enhancing regional cooperation in managing animal diseases.
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Leather Products Institute (ALLPI), the International Coalition for Water and the Environment (ICWE), and the Fisheries Transparency Initiative (FiTI) further strengthen AU-IBAR’s expertise and influence. The annual High-Level Coordination Meeting serves as a platform for key stakeholders to align strategies and initiatives, advancing sustainable animal resource development across the continent.
African PPR Eradication Program, aligned with the One Health approach, is making significant strides in reducing disease burdens on small ruminants and enhancing livestock productivity. With projects like the Resilient African Feed and Fodder Systems Project (RAFFS) and the Africa Pastoral Markets Development Platform (APMDP), AU-IBAR has strengthened food security and pastoral market integration, demonstrating its commitment to innovation and resilience in Africa’s agricultural sector. Leadership Principles & Guidance With over 20 years in veterinary epidemiology and global livestock development, her leadership is rooted in collaboration, integrity, and innovation. She believes in fostering strong networks, upholding transparency, and ensuring ethical decision-making. By championing inclusivity and knowledge-sharing, she has created an environment where diverse perspectives drive progress.
IBAR is modernizing data collection and analysis, empowering stakeholders to make informed decisions that drive regional integration, peace, and sustainable development. Transformative Impact of Key Initiatives Under her leadership, AU-IBAR continues to drive Africa’s animal health, fisheries, and food system transformation. The eradication of Rinderpest stands as a landmark achievement, saving the continent billions and strengthening Africa’s position in global regulatory forums. Now, the fight against Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) must be accelerated with the same urgency and commitment. PPR remains a major threat to small ruminants, devastating the livelihoods of millions of livestock-dependent communities. Its eradication is not just a goal—it is a necessity for securing resilient livestock systems, strengthening food security, and unlocking economic opportunities across Africa. Over 50 impactful projects have enhanced livestock systems, fisheries governance, and food safety across the continent. Key initiatives like the Conserving Aquatic Biodiversity in the Africa Blue Economy Project have safeguarded marine and freshwater ecosystems, boosting fisheries productivity and community livelihoods. The Pan-
For young professionals, especially women, aspiring to leadership roles in animal health and aquaculture, she advocates for skill development, embracing innovation, and building strong industry connections. She emphasizes the importance of ethical leadership and fostering diversity to enrich decision-making and industry transformation. Strategic Vision for 2025 & Beyond Looking ahead, AU-IBAR’s strategic focus aligns with the International Women’s Day theme “Accelerate Action,” emphasizing PPR as our Priority, advancing rabies elimination, and leveraging the Animal Resources Performance Dashboard to support sound and resilient PPP investments across livestock value chains. Key initiatives will scale up sustainable livestock practices, strengthen fisheries management, and foster multi-sector collaboration. Capacity-building programs will empower stakeholders with technological advancements, ensuring sustainable growth in the livestock and aquaculture sectors. A core focus remains on inclusivity, actively engaging women and youth in policy-making and implementation. Aligned with the Kampala Declaration and CAADP 10-Year Strategy, AU-IBAR will enhance disease surveillance, improve food safety, and promote sustainable resource use, solidifying its role as a leader in Africa’s animal resource sector. www.au-ibar.org
The Rise of Tech Entrepreneurs
Business women Shaping Africa's Future in Digital Innovation
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frica is on the verge of a technology revolution spearheaded by a new technology startup culture, innovation hubs, and high-tech research. At the forefront are businesswomen shaping Africa's future and not only breaking down barriers but creating change with technology, diversity, and women in technology. The Emergence of African Women in Technology Men have long controlled technology, but women in Africa are becoming leaders and entrepreneurs. They are making Africa's future digital by paving the way for millions and redefining sectors from education to e-commerce. These pioneers like Rebecca Enonchong, Judith Owigar, and Ory Okolloh are the trend-setters in their field, and they are a role model to break the ice so that women of the coming generation will be able to move into the realm of technology. These innovation and entrepreneurship leaders of maximum priority to steer innovation and entrepreneurship are the disruptors among Africa's future-makers. Rebecca Enonchong: Bridging technology and entrepreneurship For more than two decades, Enonchong has been at the vanguard of advocating for the application of technology as a solution to business issues on the African continent. Her entrepreneurial skills have developed Aptech into a thriving business with customers in more than 50 countries. Enonchong also speaks on women coming into entrepreneurship and technology, serving as a co-founder of the African Business Angels Network (ABAN) and having a dream of encouraging seed funding of African start-ups. Among women who are shaping the future of Africa, she inspires and advises up-and-coming entrepreneurs. Judith Owigar: Empowering Women Through Tech Education Judith Owigar, a technology innovator and social entrepreneur, among others established AkiraChix, a nonprofit organization whose objective was to boost the number of women in the tech sector. AkiraChix offers young women from all over Africa technology training, entrepreneurship training, and design
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training with the aim of closing the technology gender gap. Owigar's efforts have touched the lives of hundreds of young women mentored and well-educated by her and exposed to technology careers. Her transformation is in line with the trend among African businesswomen in spearheading Africa's future through empowering women through mentoring and education. Empowering Women in AI and Digital Policy
Challenges and Opportunities Despite improvement, there is a problem. The digital divide, and that in particular among girls and women living in rural villages, is a real barrier towards full digital inclusion. Ensuring quality and secure provision of the internet to everybody is the method of filling in the gap and eliminating current gender gaps. Still, the promise is vast. Young Africans with an average age of only 19.2 years old stand to gain a lot from the digital economy.
Beyond the conventional tech industries, African women are leading AI innovation and policy-making on the continent. Leaders such as Pelonomi Moiloa and Ethel Cofie are leading AI innovation and policy-making capability on the continent. African emerging business leaders are leading social transformation and shaping inclusive digital policy advocacy.
New entrepreneurial opportunities such as coding camps and mobile money interoperability are opening up entrepreneurial and tech and financial inclusion careers to women business leaders and entrepreneurs, challenging them to leave their footprint on the future of Africa on an even larger scale. Conclusion African women business leaders who determine the destiny of Africa are not game players but technology revolution masters. They are merely building the future of the continent, driving innovation, and opening opportunities for millions of individuals.
Pelonomi Moiloa: Closing Data Poverty with AI Pelonomi Moiloa, Lelapa AI CEO, addresses data poverty by developing solutions by Africans for African societies. Her firm is developing language models which have been exposed to Indigenous African languages, allowing more diverse AI research to be carried out on the continent. These interventions provide a much-needed niche in tech ecosystems and stimulate innovation and governance, once more affirming the role of businesswomen in shaping African futures in and around AI.
Conclusion If Africa spends more on increased education, mentoring, and resource allocation programs for women in the technology industry, it can unleash the full potential of women inventors on the continent and enjoy a digital future with everyone. As it proceeds to further its growth into a digital giant globally, its input by women to its future will be its key agenda. Their advocacy, innovation, and leadership are the key drivers to gender equality in technology and digital transformation opportunities on a level playing field available to the continent.
Africa's Digital Single Market: Inclusive Highway Road African Union's Digital Single Market by 2030 is its policy center in efforts toward economic integration and inclusive growth. It will be accompanied by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) vision of barrier-free exchange of digital goods and services. The DSM is intended to bridge the digital divide, promote innovation, and expand intra-Africa trade with matching and building digital infrastructure principles. Next-generation business women leaders who are shaping tomorrow's Africa are central to such a vision.
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From Local to Global
How Business women Shaping Africa's Future Are Expanding Continental Brands
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frica is on the cusp of a transformative era, driven by the vision and entrepreneurial spirit of its businesswomen. As the continent embarks on ambitious projects like Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), women entrepreneurs are at the forefront, shaping Africa's future through innovative ventures and strategic expansions. This article explores how these trailblazers are expanding continental brands, contributing to economic growth, and fostering a more inclusive and prosperous Africa. The Vision of Agenda 2063 Agenda 2063 is a comprehensive blueprint for Africa's development, envisioning a continent with a high quality of life for all its citizens. This ambitious plan recognizes the pivotal role of women in achieving its goals, particularly in areas such as economic development, gender equality, and youth empowerment. Women entrepreneurs are central to realizing this vision by driving economic growth, creating jobs, and fostering resilience across the continent. The Power of Female Entrepreneurship Women make up a significant portion of Africa's entrepreneurial landscape. Women entrepreneurs contribute significantly to the continent's economy and are more likely to drive social impact and empower other women. Organizations are empowering women to scale their businesses and become agents of change. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) The AfCFTA represents a new chapter in Africa's economic integration, creating a single market of 1.7 billion people. This agreement aims to benefit women and youth, who dominate the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) sector.
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By leveraging digital technologies and value chain partnerships, women entrepreneurs can scale their businesses across the continent, creating millions of jobs and driving economic transformation.
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Expanding Continental Brands
Challenges and Opportunities
Several African businesswomen are leading the charge in expanding continental brands, showcasing the potential for growth and innovation:
Despite the progress made, women entrepreneurs in Africa face significant challenges, including limited access to capital and socio-cultural constraints that limit their growth potential. However, these challenges also present opportunities for governments and policymakers to implement targeted policies and interventions. Initiatives like gender-responsive budgeting and leveraging the AfCFTA can help bridge the gender gap and unleash the full potential of female-led startups.
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Taeillo: Founded by Dada, Taeillo aims to become a major player in Africa's furniture market, operating in Nigeria and Kenya with a vision to expand across the continent. This ambitious goal reflects the growing influence of African brands in the global market.
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Upline Investments: Led by Khaoula Ramdi, Upline Investments is driving economic growth through strategic investments, highlighting the critical role women play in the investment sector.
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The Firma Advisory: Chinenye Uwanaka's legal and business consultancy provides essential support for African enterprises, demonstrating the diverse sectors where women are making a mark.
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Vodacom: Mmathebe Zvobwo's leadership in telecommunications underscores the importance of women in Africa's connectivity and technological advancement.
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Flend: Co-founded by Nehal Helmy, Flend showcases the innovative spirit of African women in the tech industry, contributing to the continent's digital transformation.
Conclusion As Africa continues on its path to transformation, the role of businesswomen in shaping the continent's future cannot be overstated. Through their entrepreneurial spirit, innovative ventures, and strategic expansions, women are not only building successful brands but also contributing to economic growth and social development. With the right support and policies, the potential for women-led businesses to drive Africa's prosperity is limitless. As the continent moves forward, it is clear that the future of Africa will be shaped significantly by the vision and determination of its businesswomen.
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