DailySun
Cape Town – The 2024 Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) Awards acknowledged the remarkable achievements of African women entrepreneurs at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).
The esteemed awards (www.AWIEForum.org) ceremony took place on Friday evening, (29 November 2024), honoring six extraordinary winners selected from a prestigious group of 18 finalists.
Dr. Naledi Pandor, former South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, was presented with the Lifetime Leadership Award.
Celebrating Excellence in African Entrepreneurship
This year’s finalists and winners showcased the incredible talent and innovation of African women entrepreneurs who are creating opportunities, driving economic advancement, and transforming communities across the continent.
The finalists hailed from South Africa, Tunisia, and Nigeria, representing diverse industries that illustrate the innovation and leadership thriving among women in Africa.
The AWIEF Awards 2024 ceremony marked the conclusion of the AWIEF2024 Conference, a two-day event that attracted over 500 delegates from more than 50 countries.
This dynamic conference served as a crucial platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and celebrating the impactful successes of women entrepreneurs shaping Africa’s future.
Honoring a Legacy of Leadership
A key highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Lifetime Leadership Award to Dr. Naledi Pandor, recognizing her Legacy of Leadership and Impact.
Dr. Pandor’s distinguished career spans several decades, during which she has made significant contributions to South Africa’s domestic and international policies.
As Minister of International Relations and Cooperation (2019–2024), she amplified South Africa’s global presence, championing diplomacy, peace-building, and international cooperation.
Her visionary leadership continues to inspire generations throughout Africa and beyond.
The Winners of AWIEF Awards 2024
The following women were celebrated for their outstanding contributions and achievements in their respective fields:
YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR AWARD
Mpho Hlongwane – MH Automotive Engineering (South Africa)
AGRI ENTREPRENEUR AWARD
Ifeoma Okonkwo – Ifgreen Industries & Investment (Nigeria)
CREATIVE INDUSTRY AWARD
Thabo Makhetha-Kwinana – Thabo Makhetha CC (South Africa)
EMPOWERMENT AWARD
Creseldah Cassandra Ndlovu – CLM Clothing & Textile (South Africa)
TECH ENTREPRENEUR AWARD
Ynes Hafi – ARSELA (Tunisia)
SOCIAL ENTREPRENEUR AWARD
Temitope Mayegun – Avilla Naturelle (Nigeria)
A Platform for Women’s Empowerment
The AWIEF Awards continue to showcase the achievements of African women entrepreneurs, celebrating their innovative spirit and their crucial roles in promoting sustainable development and economic progress across the continent.
For more information about the AWIEF Awards and Conference, including details about the finalists and winners, please visit www.AWIEForum.org.
