Over 100 companies honoured for driving innovation and job creation

KAMPALA - Over 100 companies from across East Africa have been recognised for their excellence, innovation and contribution to regional economic growth.

The Friday, October 24, 2025, recognition was during the 5th East Africa Quality Brand Awards at Golf Course Hotel in Kampala.

Now in its fifth edition, the awards highlighted the pivotal role of innovative business practices in generating employment, enhancing trade and positioning East African products for global markets.

Winning companies were granted a prestigious quality mark, which organisers said will boost their competitiveness both within Africa and internationally.

This year’s awards carried the theme: Global Visionaries and Pioneers: Revolutionising Quality through Sustainable Innovation, which reflects a renewed focus on innovation as a driver of industrial growth and socio-economic transformation in the region.

Speaking at the event, Patrick Nsubuga, brand ambassador for the East Africa Brand Quality Awards and Alconext Africa, described the awards as a platform to celebrate businesses that embrace sustainable, ethical and innovative practices, fostering economic development.

“At the heart of this celebration is trade. Trade is more than the exchange of goods and services; it is a powerful tool for achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Through trade, we can create jobs, reduce poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity reaches every corner of East Africa,” Nsubuga said.

He traced the evolution of the awards, noting that since 2000, thousands of organisations, including manufacturers, civil society groups and service providers, have been assessed for quality, innovation and impact.

A notable feature of the awards is the Investors Hub, which Nsubuga said has helped manufacturers showcase products internationally and connect with global distributors.

Support needed

Bella Wines and Juices chief executive officer Prudence Kasibante Ukkonika urged businesses to support regional manufacturers and service providers.

“By choosing local suppliers, we not only promote innovation but also generate jobs, pay taxes, and strengthen our economies,” she said.

Kennedy Omondi, the country representative for Indomie Ltd, attributed the company’s recognition to consistent quality, availability, and affordability of its products.

Other notable awardees included Bakama Property, Huawei Technologies, Kampala City Industries, Movit Products Ltd, Biva Organic, Eye Care, Gold Crown Beverages, Hariss International, Plascon, Aqua Industries, Simba Automobiles and Kumirizi Farm Co.

The awards highlighted how innovation and quality-focused production can stimulate economic growth, generate employment, and open new trade avenues for East African companies.