Dangote Industries Limited won three awards at the weekend’s 15th annual Brand Africa 100 ceremony, including the Most Admired African Brand title at Africa Hall in Addis Ababa.
An independent consumer survey across more than 30 African countries determined the industrial conglomerate’s recognition. The Brand Africa Hall of Fame inducted Dangote Industries as the first African company, alongside MTN, M-Pesa, Ethiopian Airlines, and South Africa, in this category for brands that have consistently ranked among Africa’s most admired over the past 5-15 years.
The ceremony organisers also gave company founder and President Aliko Dangote a Lifetime Achievement Award for his leadership in African industrialisation.
“These honours reflect the commitment and innovation that define our group’s journey,” said Anthony Chiejina, Group Chief Branding & Communications Officer at Dangote Industries Limited. “They are a testament to the dedication of our team, partners, and stakeholders.”
United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa, Claver Gatete, attended the ceremony and delivered the keynote address. Gatete acknowledged the Hall of Fame inductees for their work in advancing African business interests.
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“I wish to particularly acknowledge MTN, Dangote Group, M-Pesa and Ethiopian Airlines for consistently maintaining their positions among the ‘Most Admired African Brands’ category,” Gatete said.
However, the 2025 Brand Africa rankings revealed concerning trends despite rising continental optimism. Whilst 68% of Africans expressed belief in the continent, up from 64% in 2024, African brands represent only 11% of the Top 100 Most Admired Brands, down from 14% in 2024.
Brand Africa Founder and Chairman Thebe Ikalafeng described the findings as disappointing, calling it “a wake-up call for Africa” and a reflection of the continent’s industrial challenges. “It’s not enough for Africans to say they believe in the continent—they must buy made-in-Africa,” Ikalafeng said. “For that to happen, African brands must invest in R&D, continue to innovate, deliver quality, and use authenticity as a differentiator.”
