East Africa's top brands, business leaders honoured at Elite Brands Awards
The awards, organised by Jubilant Stewards of Africa (JSA) in partnership with the United SMEs Association of Kenya, Pacesetters International Research and Consultancy Ltd and other partners, celebrated organisations that are not only growing commercially but also transforming communities through responsible leadership.
L-R: Elisha Wasike, Head of Grants and Partnerships at Solar Spark Energy Kenya Ltd; Brian Mwangi, Strategic Communication and Commercial Growth Consultant at Solar Spark Energy Kenya Ltd; Dr. Edward Mudibo (tan suit), Special Advisor to the Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs; Wycliffe Oparanya; Jared Oundo (grey suit), Executive Director of Jubilant Stewards of Africa; and Faith Nafula (far right), CEO of Solar Spark Energy Kenya Ltd, during the Elite Brands International Awards organized by Jubilant Stewards of Africa in partnership with the United SMEs Association of Kenya on June 26, 2026. (Courtesy photo.)
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Some of East Africa's most outstanding businesses, institutions and industry leaders have been recognised for driving innovation, ethical leadership and social impact during the 11th Elite Brands Awards International held in Nairobi.
The awards, organised by Jubilant Stewards of Africa (JSA) in partnership with the United SMEs Association of Kenya, Pacesetters International Research and Consultancy Ltd and other partners, celebrated organisations that are not only growing commercially but also transforming communities through responsible leadership.
Held at the Argyle Grand Hotel on June 26, the gala attracted business executives, entrepreneurs and policymakers from across the region to recognise excellence in leadership, customer service, innovation, corporate governance and sustainable development.
Unlike many business awards that focus largely on financial performance, the Elite Brands Awards assess organisations using the Organisational Performance Index (OPI), which evaluates leadership, service delivery, innovation, ethical conduct, customer satisfaction and contribution to society. Organisers say the model has helped position the awards among Africa's most credible recognition platforms.
"Today's winners represent the very best of African enterprise, innovation and leadership. Through their commitment to quality service, ethical business practices and community impact, they are helping to shape a more prosperous and sustainable future for our continent."
Kenya's Cabinet Secretary for Co-operatives and MSME Development, Wycliffe Oparanya, said strong brands are built on trust, innovation and ethical leadership, adding that government will continue supporting micro, small and medium enterprises through improved market access and enterprise growth initiatives.
"These principles are essential for strengthening enterprises, attracting investment, and accelerating economic transformation," Oparanya stated.
Among the winners was Solar Spark Energy Kenya Ltd, whose Chief Executive Officer, Faith Nafula, said the recognition reflects the company's efforts to expand access to clean energy after powering more than 150 learning institutions with solar solutions.
"This recognition inspires us to keep innovating, serving and building a brighter future together," she said.
Awards were presented across sectors, including manufacturing, engineering, banking financial services and many more.
Organisations recognised included Vecarian Plant Limited, Boredo Supplies Limited, Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA), Kemuma Engineering Systems, TAZ Gift Shop, TalentGurus@254 and Salihiya Cargo and Shipping Agency, among others.
Individual honours also went to Mbaruk Mwalimu, Police Constable Rehana Nasibo Halake, Charlton Kusimba, Carol Wanjiru and Julius Mwenda for their contributions to leadership, innovation and public service.
Participants came from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ghana and other African countries, reflecting the growing role of African enterprises in driving regional integration, job creation and sustainable economic growth.
Speakers at the event called for continued investment in innovation, entrepreneurship and responsible leadership to strengthen the continent's competitiveness.