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12 November 2025

Africa Tech Festival Awards

The Africa Tech Festival Awards celebrated the most innovative and impactful tech achievements across the continent. The event showcased the latest in digital transformation, brought together industry leaders, and recognised those shaping the future of African technology.

2025 Awards Timeline


Here is the timeline for the 2025 Africa Tech Festival Awards!

Key information:

  • The shortlist will consist of the top 5 candidates per category and will be subject to a public vote.
  • The top three shortlisted candidates with the most votes from the public will progress to the finals.
  • The finalists will be sent to our expert panel of judges, who will determine the winners.
  • The winners will be announced live at the ceremony in Cape Town on 12 November.

2025 Award Categories


Connectivity for All

Celebrating outstanding efforts to close the digital divide, this award honours a project, organisation or partnership that has significantly improved access to reliable, affordable connectivity in underserved or remote regions, contributing to social inclusion and digital empowerment.

New for 2025!

AI Leader of the Year

This award recognises an individual or organisation at the forefront of artificial intelligence in Africa, demonstrating innovative thinking, real-world impact, and a commitment to using AI to drive inclusive, ethical, and transformative progress across industries and communities.

New for 2025!

Telco of the Year

This award is dedicated to recognising and honouring network providers and services that have demonstrated exceptional commitment and effort in ensuring connectivity for all.

2024 Winner: MTN Ghana

Innovation for Impact

This award recognises innovations of products or services that have disrupted traditional approaches, introduced novel solutions, and created tangible value for businesses and individuals in Africa.

2024 Winner: WIOCC Group

CXO of the Year

This award honours exceptional leaders in Africa and their outstanding contributions in building teams, setting new standards, and delivering on a clear vision in a rapidly changing business landscape.

2024 Winner: Patrick Benon, Orange Cameroon

Changing Lives

The Changing Lives Award is dedicated to recognising and honouring organisations and initiatives that are committed to improving lives across the continent.

2024 Winner: Orange Burkina Faso

Female Innovator of the Year

This award seeks to honour the women who have made significant contributions to the fields of tech, media, and telecoms across Africa.

2024 Winner: Toyosi Odukoya

Fintech Innovation of the Year

This award acknowledges the transformative power of financial technology in driving economic growth, financial inclusion, and digital transformation.

2024 Winner: Ecentric Payment Systems (Including partners: Eastern Cape Transport Tertiary Cooperative Limited (ECTTC) & FORUS Digital)

Startup of the Year

This award acknowledges the entrepreneurial spirit, technological innovation, and potential impact of start-ups in driving growth, solving local challenges, and contributing to the advancement of Africa's tech ecosystem.

2024 Winner: SprintHive

Cybersecurity Leader of the Year

The Cybersecurity Leader of the Year Award honours exceptional individuals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation, and impact in the cybersecurity field.

2024 Winner: Sithembile Songo