By Eddah Waithaka
Kenya will take center stage in the innovation and entrepreneurship world as it hosts the 9th Pacesetters International Awards on September 12, 2025, at a top hotel in Nairobi.
The globally acclaimed event will honor exceptional SMEs and startups from across Africa, recognizing their groundbreaking contributions to leadership, sustainability, and societal development.
Jubilant Stewards of Africa (JSA), through Pacesetters International Research and Consultancy Ltd, in partnership with the United SMEs Association of Kenya, organizes the awards.
The gala will announce winners after a rigorous selection process, celebrating businesses and professionals who redefine excellence in their industries.
Celebrating Africa’s Trailblazers
This year’s awards will spotlight SMEs and startups that drive economic growth through innovation, sustainability, and resilience.
“The shortlisted companies have set new benchmarks in Africa’s SME sector. These businesses prove that small and medium enterprises remain the backbone of our economy,” said Jared Oundo, Executive Director of Jubilant Stewards of Africa.
The awards will recognize excellence in leadership, customer service, innovation, and corporate social responsibility (CSR). Special categories will honor fast-growing startups, tech-driven enterprises, and businesses championing diversity and inclusion.
Notable Past Winners & New Contenders
Previous awardees include Safaricom, Kevian Kenya Ltd, Little Pesa, Nation Media Group, and Insight Security Limited Tanzania.
New entrants in the 2025 nominees list feature, Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital, TV 47 & Radio 47 (Cape Media) and Shian Tours & Travels Ltd.
Top executives like Paul Russo (KCB Group CEO) and media personalities such as Jeff Koinange (Citizen TV), Tina Ogal (Citizen Radio), and Trevor Ombija will also grace the event.
“This recognition highlights our dedication to innovative healthcare solutions. We look forward to engaging with industry leaders,” said Dr. Anandh Ramanathan, Vice President of Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital.
A Platform for Thought Leadership & Networking
The event will feature keynote speeches, panel discussions, and networking sessions, focusing on Digital transformation, Sustainable business models and Access to affordable financing for SMEs.
Hundreds of entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers will attend, making it a prime opportunity for partnerships.
Call for SME-Friendly Policies
Oundo urged the government to ease business operations for SMEs by introducing policy reforms, particularly in access to credit and financial support.
“We need initiatives that unlock MSME potential to drive economic growth,” he emphasized.
A Legacy of Excellence
Past editions have taken place in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, including venues like Serena Hotel (Dar es Salaam), Weston Hotel (Nairobi), and Panari Hotel. The 2024 awards were held at Argyle Grand Hotel, Kenya.
The selection process uses the Organizational Performance Index (OPI), a globally benchmarked tool ensuring winners meet ethical and performance excellence standards.
Join the Celebration
Jubilant Stewards of Africa invites business leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals to attend the awards and celebrate Africa’s brightest innovators.
The Pacesetters International Awards (PIA), an initiative by Jubilant Stewards of Africa (JSA), recognizes industry leaders for innovation, job creation, and societal impact. The awards promote best practices, ethical leadership, and service beyond profit.
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