The much-anticipated Elite Brands Awards International was successfully held on 13th December 2024 at the prestigious Argyle Grand Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya. The event brought together various companies and individuals from across Africa, spotlighting excellence, innovation, and leadership across diverse industries.
Organized by Jubilant Stewards of Africa, the awards recognize organizations and individuals who not only excel in their respective industries but also demonstrate an unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on society. The prestigious awards celebrate both operational excellence and process-driven approaches that prioritize humanity, ethics, and social responsibility.
In his address, Jared Oundo, Executive Director of Jubilant Stewards of Africa said that the awards reflect a deep commitment to recognizing industry leaders who go beyond the expected to make meaningful contributions to their sectors and communities.
“We are honored to host the Elite Brands Awards International here in Kenya. This event is not just a celebration of individual and organizational achievement; it is a recognition of the tireless work and dedication that drives progress across various industries. It is an acknowledgment of those who continuously push boundaries, innovate and challenge the status quo to create lasting and meaningful change in our societies and also disrupt the equilibrium in the money and product market as they transform various economies in the region. Next year we will be hosting another A sector Based Awards which includes the Education Sector, Real Estate Sector, Health Sector, finance and banking & finance Sector and Fintech & Tech sector,” said Mr. Oundo.
The Elite Brands Awards International relies on the Organizational Performance Index (OPI) to assess companies’ processes, systems, and impact, ensuring that awardees meet globally acceptable standards. Awardees are selected based on extensive research and industry benchmarks, with the final winners demonstrating both business acumen and dedication to societal growth. The event also served as a platform for thought-provoking discussions and networking, bringing together government officials, entrepreneurs, and media representatives. Attendees were able to exchange insights and celebrate the remarkable achievements of the award recipients, further solidifying the role of the awards in promoting best practices and ethics in leadership.
Zelipher Wairimu, Administrator of Kevian Kenya, expressed gratitude for the recognition, describing it as a significant milestone for the company. “To be recognized among the esteemed industry leaders is both humbling and inspiring. This award is a significant milestone for us and serves as a reminder of our tireless dedication to quality and innovation.” She emphasized the company’s pride in being acknowledged as one of Kenya’s leading food and beverage producers during the Elite Brands Awards, noting their ability to stand out amid tough competition from peers across the continent.
Wairimu reaffirmed Kevian Kenya’s commitment to delivering exceptional products and services to consumers across the region. “For us, just as Elite Brands Awards International, it’s not about making a profit through our sales but producing quality, competitive, and healthy products in the regional market we operate in,” she stated. The recognition underscores the company’s ongoing mission to set the standard in the food and beverage sector through quality and innovation.
The event celebrated the achievements of prominent companies and institutions across various sectors. In the microfinance sector, notable entities recognized included Mwananchi Credit Limited, Pi Capital Limited, Jijenge Credit Limited, Octagon Africa, and RWK Africa. The real estate and housing category honored companies like Myspace Properties, MD Homes Limited, Maono Lands, Icon Prime Properties, Prime House Interiors, and Bama Diaspora. In healthcare, Westland Laser Eye Hospital, Veteran Mission Hospital, Allsmiles Therapy Center, and Bekaz Spa received accolades, while transport and logistics recognized Trinity Transporters and Distributors Company Ltd, Raphael Logistics, Samwest Distributors, Utu Cars, and Digital Driving School.
The food and beverage category highlighted brands such as Kevian Kenya Limited, Ninia Honey, and Ajani House, while the security sector featured Babs Security, Insight Security, and Kemuna Engineering. In technology, companies like Robisearch, M-Kopa, Hitech Ink & Coating, and Youtopia were acknowledged. The media, entertainment, and tours category included Sun FM and TV Zambia, Turning Point Magazine, Sunflower Events, and Pomper Safaris. Additionally, institutions like Masai Mara University, Prestine HR-Engine Limited, and Admission World Consult Ltd were celebrated under the training and academia category.
Individual excellence was also recognized, with awards presented to personalities such as Dr. Vaibhav Pednekar, Chief Inspector Ms. Caroline Njuguna, Julius Mwenda, Ran Ramchandani, Abdiwahab Mohamed Nurow, and KCB Group CEO Paul Russo. In previous years, Jubilant Stewards of Africa has honored esteemed organizations and individuals, including Safaricom Plc, Ruben West from the USA, Uganda Professional Chefs Union, Movidna Services, and the University of Nairobi.
Dr. Ekrah Ndungu, Chairperson Kenya National Association of Private Colleges (KENAPCO) Guest speaker, said, “as we gather here tonight, we acknowledge the incredible talent and dedication of individuals from various fields who have made a lasting impact on their communities and beyond. Every award that will be presented here today tells a story of perseverance, commitment, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.”
In addition to this event, Jubilant Stewards of Africa plans to hold various other awards ceremonies in the upcoming months: Institutional Sector Awards in Kenya, Ghana & Nigeria in April 2024, another award gala in Kenya in June 2025, and an international ceremony in South Africa/Dubai once the regional board approves in December 2025. These events will continue the organization’s mission to celebrate excellence across different regions and sectors.
